Post by : Badri Ariffin

New York University Abu Dhabi has unveiled ChatSign, a groundbreaking artificial intelligence platform aimed at enhancing communication for individuals with hearing challenges. This innovative technology offers real-time translation from spoken words into sign language, facilitating connections between Deaf, Hard-of-Hearing, and hearing individuals.

Developed at NYU Abu Dhabi by Yi Fang, an Associate Professor of Electrical and Computer Engineering and the Director of the Embodied AI & Robotics Lab, ChatSign was co-founded with CEO Zhifei Maggie Li and Chief Product Officer Zhenhua Li.

The AI system currently translates spoken Arabic and English into sign language live. Supporting both American Sign Language and Emirati Sign Language, it enhances communication in various settings, both public and private. Advanced features, including sign-to-speech and text-to-sign technology, are in development.

According to NYU Abu Dhabi's Interim Vice Chancellor Fabio Piano, the launch of ChatSign embodies the university's mission to transform research and innovation into tangible solutions that serve society.

Intended for use across diverse sectors such as healthcare, education, and government, the platform seeks to address the persistent issue of limited access to sign language interpreters, often expensive or unavailable when needed.

Founder Yi Fang highlighted the vision of the company to normalize sign language accessibility, making it as effortless as smartphone communication. He emphasized that the technology supports inclusive communication on a broader scale.

After launching as a research initiative in 2024, ChatSign has swiftly evolved into a functional commercial prototype. Its technology is patent-protected and was tested successfully during a live campus event in late 2025, providing real-time translation to over 200 students.

The AI platform will be featured during NYU Abu Dhabi’s 2026 Commencement Ceremony, providing live speech-to-sign translation for guests.

Showcased in notable events like Dubai AI Week, AccessAbilities Expo, and Make it in the Emirates, the startup also reached the semi-finals of the GITEX Expand North Star competition.

Co-founder Maggie Li noted that the focus was on creating a practical, quick, and efficient system for real-world applications. The company aims to deploy ChatSign devices worldwide in the next decade to improve communication accessibility for Deaf and Hard-of-Hearing individuals.

ChatSign is currently collaborating with partners for data gathering, technology verification, and pilot initiatives across various sectors, planning to expand operations in the UAE before pursuing international ventures.

#world news #Global News #Abu Dhabi News #Abu Dhabi