MediaFile

The deaf and hearing-impaired could soon be able to enjoy radio via text displayed on screens if a prototype to be demonstrated at this year’s Consumer Electronics Show in Las Vegas proves a hit.

Popular programs from National Public Radio in the United States will be transcribed live by stenographers and broadcast via HD radio on Tuesday.

NPR’s partners in the project, U.S. government communications company Harris Corp. and Towson University hope they will eventually be able to bring radio broadcasts to the millions of people with hearing difficulties in the United States, and beyond.

Backers of the project have begun soliciting support from radio equipment makers including Kenwood, whose prototype device is pictured above.

(Photo: Reuters/Georgina Prodhan)