Naturally, I was curious to find out more information! I went to their website (http://snapvrs.com/) and their facebook page (http://www.facebook.com/snapvrs). I see they do offer 24/7 interpreters, VCO, 10-digit number, and VRI. Although, it is not handled by Snap!VRS. Instead, "Snap!VRS has partnered with Communication Access Network of America, Inc...Please visit www.caninterpreting.com to find out more about rates and reservations for VRI services." Anyhow, they also do two things that I think are cool. 1) You do not need to sign out your SSN, your credit card #s, or anything like that to the VR interpreter. Instead, you can type it in using your free Ojo. That's nice. It'll give some people a better sense of security. 2) You can make your own video greetings for other people to view. I do wonder if the interpreters can view this also during any calls made by Hearing callers?
Deaf can call @ "call.snapvrs.com"
Hearing can call @ 888-711-SNAP (7627).
(A bonus for the Hearing callers, the Ojo can be purchased for $299.99 with a monthly subscription fee.)
**FYI, it seems there is another OJO model called "Ojo PVP-1000". I'll have to contact Snap!VRS and check on that a bit more.**
Lastly, I made a call to my mother to say hello. The conversation went very smoothly. There were no video delays. The interpreter did a great job translating my American Sign Language into English. My mother agrees. The only suggestion I have is if I sign out something in the middle of a conversation, I would like the interpreter to either appropriately interrupt my mother or add my question or comment to the end of the conversation rather than make me sign things twice. Again, it's not a big deal. I'm just thinking about a perfect world with 100% equal and fair communication.
I'm looking forward to the next VRS blog. Apparently Snap!VRS also bought or took over ViableVRS? I'll have to investigate that too. Will follow up soon.
Next VRS Provider : ViableVRS
The information regarding Communication Access Network is very outdated. SnapVRS bought Communication Access Network several years ago and that organization has since dissolved within the SnapVRS organization. SnapVRS now has their own VRS centers in several cities. SnapVRS has taken over the Viable network because of the troubles that Viable had with fraudalent calls.
ReplyDeleteIt looks like you may be "far" from this technology only to find something "anew". FYI - I admire you checking up and posting different devices on your blog, however, its all old news. I can say for now, SnapVRS is way outdated with the Ojo, nothing has been improvised. Many customer has given SnapVRS alot of suggestions to upgrade to a better features, however , like all customer stated SnapVRS are not paying attention to it. Now I found it odd SnapVRS is paying attention to Viable's equipment more than the Ojo itself. Strange!!! Now we know!!!
ReplyDeleteI've had SnapOjo for little over 2 years now and there has been zero updates. No improvements. I got a free Z-Ojo few months ago and wow, there are updates and improvements. I now tell everyone to dump their SnapOjo and get the Z-Ojo. Its the same machine but Z-Ojo has more features and higher quality too.
ReplyDeleteSnap won't give hearing Ojo purchase direct from Snap interop feature force to use VRS make more money for them.
ReplyDeleteSnap!VRS has a strong loyal customer case and appreciates all of the support we have received in recognizing our superior and dependable technology and VRS. We just spent lots of time and money investing in the VPAD and Viable Vision softphone so we're extending our platform investment to the Ojo to bring you more great features. Snap!VRS continues to invest in the infrastructure that supports the Ojo and Ojo customers should expect to see some exciting new features in the near future. In addition, Snap!VRS will soon be displaying the interpreter ID number during VRS calls, as many customers have requested it. So get ready!
ReplyDeleteA couple additional responses to the comments left on April 14 at 4:50 and April 18:
ReplyDeleteFirst, The Snap-Ojo is a free video phone whereas the Z-Ojo costs $49 and requires the porting of the Snap-Ojo 10-digit number. But you don't always get what you pay for. Deaf relay users who switch from a Snap-Ojo to a Z-Ojo have returned to their Snap-Ojo because they are not satisfied with their experience with ZVRS. Furthermore, the Z-Ojo and the Snap-Ojo are the same devices with the same video resolution, frame rates, and compression. The both deliver the same video quality over the same high-speed internet connection. Don't be fooled. Get in touch with your Snap representative today to get more information about the Snap technology and service you can count on every time you use it.
Secondly, Hearing callers are free to purchase an Ojo directly from the manufacturer and opt into the Snap!VRS network via their family and friends program. See www.ojophone.com.