ITVX launches world-first British Sign Language channel

ITVX recently launched the world-first British Sign Language channel.

Deaf and hard-of-hearing viewers can now access the British Sign Language channel, a worldwide streaming first!

Solely featuring signed programming, the channel will include a range of binge-worthy shows like Emmerdale and Coronation Street omnibus episodes, Cilla, Alan Carr’s Epic Gameshow, Vera, Lewis, and The Saint.

TVX will ensure that the channel is regularly updated and will eventually go on to include more recent and older programmes covering a wide range of genres.

This is a breakthrough for the deaf and hard-of-hearing individuals who love watching TV but have difficulty hearing the audio. Though this is not a one size fits all kind of solution, as some individuals may not be familiar with sign language, this is a great step towards a more friendly, usable platform for the deaf and hearing impaired.

ITV's Director of Accessibility, David Padmore, said:

"We're committed to placing great accessibility at the heart of ITVX and our offering at launch represents significant progress on ITV Hub. Our ITV Signed Channel gives us a fantastic platform for showcasing our rich archive of signed programmes."

A few of the benefits...

• ITVX will offer over 10,000 hours of content at launch while prioritising the subtitling and audio-describing of their amazing selection!
• ITVX will now have subtitles for over 90% of on-demand programmes on every platform and device - from mobile apps, web browsers, and connected TVs and plug-in devices.
• For Live TV watched through ITVX, subtitles will be available to around 80% of viewers, while the team work behind the scenes to enable live subtitling for the remaining platforms, which includes Freeview, YouView, Freesat, and Chromecast

What a great start to 2023!

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