Sorenson Communications Brings the Signing and Hearing Worlds Closer via Deaf-Friendly Features in the New Sorenson VP-200 Videophone.

SALT LAKE CITY -- Designed Specifically for the Deaf and Hard-of-Hearing Community, New VP-200 Videophone Features Make Communication with the Hearing World Even Easier and More Natural

Sorenson Communications(TM), the leader in services and technology for the deaf and hard-of-hearing community, today announced the availability of the company's next-generation Sorenson VP-200(TM) videophone in select areas across the nation.

The Sorenson VP-200 videophone leverages the company's leading video communication technology to provide the most natural and accurate experience available for deaf individuals to communicate with the hearing world. The VP-200 is used by deaf and hard-of-hearing users to contact hearing individuals through the Sorenson Video Relay Service(R) (VRS). Additionally, other signing individuals who also have a videophone can be contacted directly by placing a point-to-point call with the videophone.

The VP-200 leads the industry in video image quality, which is crucial for enabling American Sign Language (ASL) users to easily read facial expressions and hand motions. Key deaf-friendly features, which are only available on the VP-200 videophone include:

--LightRing(TM): acts like a visual caller ID and allows VP-200 users to assign a unique light pattern to incoming calls

--Pan/tilt/zoom camera: VP-200 remote control allows users to remain seated while adjusting the videophone's camera lens with the Pan/tilt/zoom feature to better view themselves and the individuals that they call

--Highest video quality: incredibly clear video quality for viewing quick hand signs, finger spelling, facial expressions and other key nuances of sign language

"The VP-200 has been in development for more than three years and there has been a tremendous positive response from our beta testers," said Pat Nola, President and CEO of Sorenson Communications. "It is another example of Sorenson Communications' commitment to bridging the signing and hearing worlds by offering innovative products and services that improve the quality of life for deaf and hard-of-hearing individuals."

VP-200s are now being used in all the Sorenson VRS Interpreting Centers across the nation. Every Sorenson VRS interpreter uses a VP-200 videophone when conducting video relay calls. The VP-200 videophones at the centers ensures that all Sorenson VRS calls are interpreted using the highest quality video, which sets Sorenson VRS apart from other VRS services in the industry.

"The first time I used my VP-200, the amazing image quality made me feel like the person I called was in the room with me," said Mitch Moyers of Salt Lake City, Utah, a deaf VP-200 beta user. "When I sign to the Sorenson VRS interpreter using my VP-200 videophone, it is hard to believe how easy it is to read finger spelling and see the facial expressions so clearly. I also love the many new features on the VP-200!"

Distribution of the VP-200 will be conducted throughout the United States in phases and is expected to be completed over several years. The company intends to issue the VP-200 videophone to qualified deaf and hard-of-hearing Americans who have access to high-speed Internet and use ASL as their preferred method of communication. Current users of the Sorenson VP-100 have already been placed on a list for a replacement VP-200 and will receive the equipment when it is available in their area. As with any new communication technology, it will take several years to deploy the VP-200s across the country.

For more information on the Sorenson VP-200 videophone, please visit www.sorensonvrs.com/VP-200. Additionally, deaf or hard-of-hearing individuals who do not already have a Sorenson videophone can apply for one at www.sorensonvrs.com/apply.

About Sorenson Communications

Sorenson Communications(TM) (www.sorenson.com) is a provider of industry-leading communication offerings including Sorenson Video Relay Service(R) (VRS), the company's line of videophones, Sorenson IP Relay(TM) (siprelay) and Sorenson Video Remote Interpreting(TM) (VRI). Sorenson VRS (www.sorensonvrs.com) enables deaf callers to conduct video relay conversations with hearing friends, business colleagues and family members through a qualified American Sign Language interpreter. The company's Sorenson VP-100 is the first consumer-based broadband videophone appliance specifically designed for deaf individuals. Sorenson IP Relay (www.siprelay.com) allows deaf and Hard-of-hearing users to place instant text-based relay calls from a PC or mobile device to any telephone user. Sorenson Video Remote Interpreting(TM) (www.sorensonvri.com) is a fee-based video interpreting service ideal for use in situations where an interpreter cannot be physically present to interpret between hearing and deaf individuals who are at the same location.