spokhand and Sign Language Interpreters: Allies, Not Replacements.

For years, one question has come up every time we talk about technology and sign language:

“Are you going to replace interpreters?”

It’s a fair concern. And at spokhand, we take it seriously.

But our answer is simple and unwavering: No, we are not replacing interpreters, and we never intend to.

What Spokhand builds (and what we don’t)

Let’s be clear:

Spokhand does not develop real-time translation tools.

We do not offer any product that aims to substitute human interpreters.

What do we do instead?

We are building the largest, ethical, community-sourced sign language database in the world designed to fuel inclusive AI systems for decades to come.

This database can power:

• written content translated into sign language,

• accessible chatbots with signing avatars,

• advanced sign language dictionaries,

• sign language learning platforms for hearing people.

But none of this replaces the human expertise and empathy of interpreters. In fact, we believe it strengthens their role.

Interpreters are not disappearing, they’re expanding

For more than a decade, some have claimed that interpreters would soon be obsolete.

And yet, today, there are more interpreters than ever. That’s a sign of progress and we celebrate it.

Because as demand for sign language grows, so does the need for professional human interpretation.

And we firmly believe that Spokhand is part of that growth.

• A better sign language dictionary? It supports interpreter training.

• A smoother learning experience? It creates more signers and future interpreters.

• A structured, reusable video database? It reduces repetitive tasks, so interpreters can focus on what matters most: real conversations.

Complementarity, not competition

Automatic tools may one day handle basic content like website menus, simple forms, or short automated responses.

But they will never replace real human interaction in complex or emotional situations:

• Medical appointments

• Courtroom hearings

• Social services

• Live interviews or emotional testimony

In all these contexts, interpreters are vital. Their cultural understanding, empathy, and nuance cannot be replicated by a machine.

Looking Ahead

We envision a world where:

• Written content is accessible in multiple formats

• Deaf people can choose how they consume information: reading, signing, or listening

• Technology empowers people, but never replaces them

To build this world, we need to work together: interpreters, developers, linguists, Deaf communities, and allies.

Spokhand is just one part of the ecosystem.

But we are committed to one thing: serving sign language, not replacing it.