Regulatory

RTT and TTY are two accessibility features that allow GCI customers with auditory and/or speech disabilities to communicate using mobile devices.  The functionality of these features may be dependent on the customer’s device, subscription, and the network technology used for the call.

RTT stands for “Real Time Text” and is a feature that provides voice call accessibility over Internet protocol (IP) enabled networks (i.e., Voice over LTE “VoLTE” or WiFi Calling) for people who are deaf, hard of hearing, deaf-blind, or have a speech disability. Using an RTT-enabled mobile device, RTT allows text characters to be sent as they are created and/or be sent simultaneously with voice.  RTT may be available to a GCI customer using a RTT-capable device on GCI’s network if (1) the customer has an active VoLTE subscription and RTT has been enabled on the device; and (2) the communication session occurs on an IP-based (i.e., VoLTE or WiFi Calling) network.  If you have questions regarding RTT and your ability to use this functionality, please contact customer service.    

TTY mode is a feature of mobile phones that allows the phone to function as a “teletypewriter” or “text telephone.” A teletypewriter is a device designed for the hearing impaired or those who have difficulty speaking. It translates audio signals into words and displays them for the person to see.  TTY may be activated on a GCI customer’s device through the device’s settings and/or by connecting a TTY terminal device. TTY mode should only be used with legacy telecommunications services and may be unavailable or unreliable when using Wi-Fi Calling or on a VoLTE call. If TTY services are needed (for an emergency call or otherwise), GCI recommends disabling the Wi-Fi Calling feature and VoLTE on your device to continue using your existing TTY services on the GCI wireless network.

GCI customers using RTT technology may communicate with TTY devices, and vice versa.  RTT may support additional characters that are not available using TTY.  In addition, RTT calls to 911 in Alaska may be answered by Public Safety Answering Points (“PSAPs”) using TTY.