Text calls
using IP Relay
Phone calls simplified.
If you are deaf, DeafBlind, hard-of-hearing, or have a speech disability, T-Mobile IP Relay makes it easy to make and receive phone calls—using text! Just fire up your browser on your computer or tablet, or launch the app on your phone. Type in the number you want to dial, and communicate over text!
You type your side of the conversation, and a trained, T-Mobile operator voices what you type. When the person you're calling replies, the operator types the reply which you follow in text. In each case the operator is relaying the conversation over the internet (and where "IP Relay" gets its name.)
This seamless, real-time call is a great way to communicate, particularly when using video is inconvenient or not ideal.
Your calls. Your terms.
T-Mobile IP Relay was designed from the ground up for people who are deaf, DeafBlind, hard of hearing, or who have a speech disability, with thoughtful features that make text-based communication quick and easy.
Safe conversations.
Have you ever felt like you weren't "camera ready" to be on a Video Relay Service (VRS) call? Or maybe that conversation with your doctor isn't one you want to sign for everyone to see. Maybe you don't use sign language at all! T-Mobile IP Relay is a fantastic confidential way to make a phone call with whatever you have to say, because the entire conversation is in text, for your eyes only.
But what about having an operator on the call? IP Relay operators have strict, confidentiality agreements that forbid them from recording or disclosing anything said on calls by law. Even better? Because your call has a live operator, you'll get a smooth, accurate transcription of what's said.
Ideal for the DeafBlind community
T-Mobile has built-in compatibility with the most popular braille displays and screen readers right into IP Relay. We've also integrated iOS and Android accessibility features into T-Mobile IP Relay App to further meet individual needs.
Do specific font sizes, colors or backgrounds work best for your particular needs? You can customize it just the way you want it.
Even better, T-Mobile's dedicated DeafBlind outreach team is there to help anyone get comfortable and learn how to use IP Relay!
Ready when you need it.
T-Mobile IP Relay is a great way to make a call when you're doing other things, or when your internet connection is slow. The line at the grocery store, or a mountain trail may not be the best places to make a video call, but IP Relay is ready. It requires a lot less bandwidth, and like texting, you can communicate while you're doing other things.
Not just IP Relay. T-Mobile IP Relay.
Make IP Relay your own.
T-Mobile IP Relay lets you customize your call experience to meet your personal preferences, including:
- Text Designed By You. You pick your font size, colors, and background colors.
- Voice Carry Over. Enjoy two-line voice carry over (VCO) calls.
- Hearing Carry Over. Use two-line hearing carry over (HCO) for calls.
- Adjustable Typing Speed. Manage the typing speed to suit your preferences.
- Call Transcripts. Keep a copy of your call transcript by saving it to your computer or mobile at the end of your call. You can also email it.
- Confidential. Completely confidential. Only you can save or email your call transcripts.
- Language Options. Choose between English and Spanish for seamless communication.
- Text Mail. When you’re not available, the relay operator will type your caller’s message and send it to you as "Text Mail" to your email address.
- Emergency Calls. Works for 911 emergency calls.
Register for IP Relay.
Take the first step: register. To use IP Relay, you'll need to register for the service. This quick, easy form will get you set up. Once you've registered, you can start making and receiving IP Relay calls right away.
Our happy customers have lots to share.
All IP Relay calls are strictly confidential. No records of any conversations are maintained by T-Mobile.
Questions? We have answers.
A relay operator literally "relays" the call, and is not part of the conversation. T-Mobile operators must follow strict confidentiality rules and are forbidden — by law — to record or disclose anything from any conversation they relay.
They are not interpreters and do not interpret what they relay. A relay operator must must type everything heard from the hearing caller — even background noises — and relay it to you as the IP Relay user.
Likewise, they are required to read aloud everything you type, including what is typed in parentheses, to the person you're calling.
Great question! We believe a live operator provides the best experience for IP Relay users, and are best equipped to accurately and completely relay what is said by the hearing people you're talking to.
We also think a live operator is better at relaying conversations with people who have different accents or who have speech differences that may not be interpreted by an automated option.
Nope. Unfortunately, the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) does not allow International calls through Internet relay services. If you need to make an international call, you'll need to use the T-Mobile Relay International Service (using a TTY) at 605-224-1837 to complete your international relay call.
IP Relay requires very little to make your calling experience great. All you need is:
- An Internet connection. Examples include Wi-Fi or a wireless network.*
- A common Internet browser still supported by its creator. Examples include Safari, Microsoft Edge, Firefox, and Google Chrome.
- Something to view the text conversations on. Examples include a computer, tablet, or mobile phone with iOS 11 or higher or Android OS 6.0 or higher.
That's it!
* Data and standard message rates may apply.