Tech giant NVIDIA has introduced a new AI-powered tool to make learning American Sign Language (ASL) more accessible. Called Signs, this free tool was launched on Thursday and aims to bridge the gap between spoken and signed language education.
Despite ASL being the third most widely used language in the United States, limited resources are still available for people looking to learn it. NVIDIA’s latest offering is set to change that, using artificial intelligence to make the process more interactive and engaging.
How the tool works
Signs are powered by machine learning and computer vision, helping users practice ASL by guiding them through different words and phrases. The tool provides a library of validated signs, all reviewed by fluent ASL users, ensuring accuracy and reliability.
Learners can attempt these signs themselves, and AI will analyze their movements, offering real-time feedback to help them improve. The tool doesn’t just cater to beginners — experienced signers can also contribute by submitting videos, which will be reviewed and added to an ever-growing database. NVIDIA aims to expand this collection to 400,000 video clips covering 1,000 signed words, making Signs a robust learning resource.
A game-changing tool
ASL plays a crucial role in communication for many individuals, yet learning resources remain relatively scarce compared to spoken languages. This tool could be a game-changer for families with deaf or hard-of-hearing children who want to start learning ASL early.
Experts in the field have pointed out that many deaf children are born to hearing parents, making early exposure to sign language vital for effective communication. By offering a free, AI-driven platform, NVIDIA provides families with an easy and accessible way to start learning.
What’s next?
Signs are now available for users, marking the beginning of what could become one of the most comprehensive ASL learning tools. NVIDIA hopes the database will grow as more people engage with the platform and contribute their sign videos, making ASL learning more manageable for everyone.
With artificial intelligence stepping in to support language education meaningfully, this could start a new wave of AI-powered tools that make learning sign language as standard — and as easy — as picking up a spoken language.
