Deaf AI

Making public spaces more accessible through technology.

Deaf AI is a Canadian accessibility technology company developing solutions that help Deaf and hard-of-hearing people access critical information in public and digital environments.

Many public spaces still rely heavily on spoken announcements. At airports, for example, gate changes, boarding announcements, delays and other operational information can be difficult to access for passengers who rely on sign language. Captions and text can help, but they do not provide the same experience as receiving information in a person’s primary sign language.

Deaf AI is initially focusing on airports and public transportation, where its technology can transform operational information into accessible visual and sign-language experiences. Its airport solution connects with existing passenger-information systems and screens, allowing announcements to be presented through sign-language videos without requiring airports to replace their existing infrastructure.

The company has been developing and testing its technology through real-world transportation projects, including a pilot at Waterloo International Airport. Its work combines AI, computer vision, language technology, video processing and flight or transportation data, while incorporating feedback and participation from members of the Deaf community.

Deaf AI’s long-term vision is to make digital and physical environments more inclusive through technology and AI-powered digital solutions in real time and go beyond for only Deaf and hard-of-hearing people. 

The company follows a community-informed approach to accessibility: technology is developed with Deaf people and accessibility stakeholders, rather than simply being developed for them.

Mehdi Masoumi, Co-Founder