844-897-3935When providing TypeWell services remotely, it's important to choose the right method for delivering the live transcript to the reader. This article compares two primary approaches:
- Using TypeWell’s built-in Web Linking platform
- Using a third-party streaming text service, such as StreamText or 1CapApp
These tools allow the transcriber to send real-time text to a student, client, or participant anywhere with an internet connection.
Setting up Remote Services using TypeWell Web Linking
The simplest way to stream text from TypeWell is to use our Web Linking platform. The transcript is sent from the transcriber's computer to the TypeWell Web server. Readers then view the live transcript on a secure webpage using any standard web browser. This means no special software is required—just a device and a browser.
Web Linking offers:
- A reliable, mobile-friendly reading experience (on laptops, iPads, smartphones, etc.)
- Adjustable font and screen settings for the reader
- A built-in chat feature for the reader to send brief messages to the transcriber
- Full support for TypeWell’s font formatting and Math Mode, including special symbols
This method is recommended for most classroom and workplace settings where the reader has their own device.
Setting up Remote Services using a third-party streaming text service (e.g. StreamText, 1CapApp)
Some events—such as conferences, webinars, and live broadcasts—require more complex captioning needs. In those cases, a third-party streaming text service may be appropriate.
StreamText and 1CapApp offer two modes of use:
- Browser-based viewer: Similar to Web Linking, the transcriber sends the text from the TypeWell Transcriber program to the third-party server. The reader views the live transcript in a browser on the third-party site.
- Caption bridge for video platforms: These services can also connect TypeWell to video platforms such as Zoom, Adobe Connect, Blackboard Collaborate, YouTube Live, and more. This requires the transcriber to install an additional application, like StreamText Connector or 1CapApp’s 1Connect.
➡️ For setup instructions, see:
How to use StreamText Linking
💡 Note: StreamText and 1CapApp require account setup, advance scheduling, and charge per-minute usage fees. Please refer to their websites for current pricing:
Key features of these platforms include:
- The reader can highlight text or take notes in the transcript viewer
- Integration with platforms like Zoom, Adobe Connect, Cisco WebEx, Blackboard, etc.
- With StreamText, the optional StreamCast app enables caption overlays on screen during live presentations (ideal for conferences)
⚠️ Keep in mind: Third-party platforms may not fully support all of TypeWell’s font and formatting features, such as multi-color text or underlining.
Choosing the Right Method
| Method | Best For... |
|---|---|
| Web Linking | Classrooms, meetings, or hybrid events where readers have their own devices |
| StreamText | Large-scale or public-facing events, embedded captioning, YouTube Live |
| 1CapApp | Similar to StreamText; used less frequently in TypeWell workflows |
Not sure which option to use? Start with Web Linking and consult your event coordinator or IT staff if third-party integration is needed.
Are you frequently connecting TypeWell with a different third-party app or streaming text platform? Let us know so we can update this article!