The definition of ‘Emergency Calls’ under the updated European Electronic Communications Code now includes ‘Emergency Communications’. What does this mean? Tis means that you can now contact the emergency services (999 + 112) by not only voice but by text too in what is known as Real Time Text.
This fantastic change helps all to reach for emergency help when its needed.
So, what is Real Time Text? Real Time Text or RTT is a communications method that allows you to send and receive texts as instantly as its being typed, I mean letter by letter is received as you type it; you don’t even need to hit send.
*Only available in emergencies when calling 999 or 112
This service has been proven valuable in critical emergencies for those who are hearing impaired or when the caller needs to communicate silently with the emergency services.
RTT allows you two options when on a call to the emergency services
- Standard Voice Call
- Use RTT during the call
How to ensure that your phone is ready to use RTT if needed
Make sure that you have Volte (4G Calling) activated on your phone – to find out how to do this through your settings, click here and select your phone on our Device Support page.
Make sure that your phone software is up to date
Activate RTT
How to Activate RTT On A Call
Android
Dial the emergency services number and click the call button
Once the call connects, click the RTT icon on the screen (if the icon is not on the screen, click the menu icon at the
top of the screen and click on Real Time Text)
Once the text box appears, type as you normally would.
FAQ
Who can use RTT?
Anyone can use RTT, as long as they are using a compatible phone which has RTT activated.
How do I know if my phone is compatible?
To use RTT, your phone has to have Volte and RTT activated. To find out how to activate these click here and select your device.
How do I use this service?
Once you've activated Volte & RTT on your phone, the RTT option will appear on screen.
Apple will be enabling this service later in 2025