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Before we dive into the Deaf world I would like to state that I am not in anyway a professional in American Sign Language. However, I have taken a two year course in American Sign Language and am familar with basic signs.

Sign4Me from Vcom 3D Apps is really a pioneer in the world of American Sign Language iPhone applications. The application was designed to teach basic signs and sentences to anyone with an IPhone or iTouch. And although I was skeptical at first, I quickly became fascinated with it. The concept is easy enough for anyone to understand. Type in an English phrase or word and hit the go button. Now watch as the 3D avatar signs the phrase in American Sign Language.

The application claims to have over 10,000 words in its database. That may not seem like a lot, but in the course of my two year class I learned about 2,000 words. So you’ll rarely stump the iPhone, but in the case that you do the avatar will fingerspell the words it doesn’t have a sign for. (Fingerspelling is spelling out the individual letters of a word that doesn’t have a sign) .

The avatar itself is a graphical masterpiece. Normally in an application such as this, you would expect poor graphics, fuzzy signing, and inaccurate motion. However, this application managed to portray as if the avatar was an actual human beings signing. Another key feature is the ability to view the avatar from any angle. A helpful tool when you can’t quite see whats being signed from straight on. You can also set the speed at which the avatar signs, giving you the freedom to learn at your own pace. I did notice the application didn’t have proper order in some of it’s sentences, but not a major deal.

Now this application is no replacement for an actual American Sign Langauge class. Mainly because you only learn signs from it. In an actual teaching environment your taught proper order, signing space, Deaf culture, and more. However, if your looking to learn a few signs and maybe start up a little conversation with a Deaf person than this is worth the $9.99. And don’t be scared to try it, most Deaf people are impressed and pleased to see you’re taking your time to try and communicate with them.

Verdict: 4.5/5 Stars