For many Canadians with hearing loss, using the phone can feel frustrating. Conversations are often missed, words sound muffled, and important details get lost. Thankfully, technology has advanced to make phone calls and video chats more accessible. Both iPhone and Android devices now offer voice-to-text features that provide real-time captions, helping you stay connected with family, friends, and healthcare providers.

iPhone Live Captions

If you use an iPhone, Apple has introduced Live Captions on recent models. You can turn this feature on in Accessibility settings, and it will provide real-time captions during phone calls, FaceTime, and even video chats. This is especially useful for people who find phone conversations stressful or tiring because you can read what’s being said as it happens.

Key benefits of iPhone Live Captions:

  • Works with phone calls, video calls, and apps like FaceTime
  • Captions appear instantly on your screen
  • Easy to enable under Accessibility settings

close-up-girl-holding-smartphoneAndroid Live Caption and Live Transcribe

Android users also have great options. Most newer Android phones include Live Caption, which automatically captions speech from phone calls, videos, and podcasts. It’s a simple way to follow along without straining to hear every word.

In addition, Google offers a free app called Live Transcribe. This app provides continuous, on-screen captions for in-person conversations or phone audio. Many people use it daily to bridge communication gaps and feel more confident when talking with others.

Key benefits of Android Live Caption and Live Transcribe:

  • Works across calls, videos, and everyday conversations
  • Free and built-in on most newer Android devices
  • Provides accurate, real-time text on your phone screen

Why Voice-to-Text is a Game-Changer

For Canadians living with hearing loss, these built-in tools are making everyday communication easier than ever. Whether you’re catching up with family, speaking with a doctor, or simply enjoying a chat with friends, having captions on your phone removes barriers and builds confidence.

And if you or a loved one struggles to hear well on the phone, it’s also important to consider a hearing test. At Hear at Home, we provide mobile hearing care across Greater Vancouver and in our North Vancouver clinic, ensuring you get the right support in a comfortable environment.


Final Thoughts

Voice-to-text options like iPhone Live Captions, Android Live Caption, and Live Transcribe are changing the way people with hearing loss experience phone conversations in Canada. They’re simple, effective, and available at your fingertips.

If phone conversations are still difficult, our team at Hear at Home Mobile Hearing Clinic can help with personalized hearing solutions. Contact us today to learn more about hearing aids, accessibility options, and support for better communication.