PhoneAnything Launches Web-over-phone Service

LONDON, ENGLAND - PhoneAnything has launched a Web-over-phone service for the visually impaired or anyone wishing to gain Internet access via a telephone. The service allows the UK's blind and partially sighted individuals to listen to complete Web pages, rather than voice-specific content, using a landline or mobile phone. The Web-over-phone service offers voice access to the Internet for the cost of a local call. PhoneAnything's technology will also benefit organizations wishing to comply with the Disability Discrimination Act. The Act requires all service providers to make reasonable adjustments to the way they deliver services to ensure disabled people can use them. Organizations can license the technology and provide their Web site to visually impaired customers through specific phone numbers. "The Internet can transform the lives of people who are visually impaired," said Steve Tyler, senior strategic manager for Digital Technology at the Royal National Institute of the Blind (RNIB)."With PhoneAnything's new technology, visually impaired users can now browse the Web and even carry out transactions using just their phone, without the need for a costly computer or other technology. The RNIB is delighted that there is now an affordable and easy-to-use way for visually impaired people to get online." The service can be accessed by dialing the local rate number 0845 333 0845. There are no subscription charges to pay to use the service.