EPO introduces automated live captions in oral proceedings by VICO
Parties in opposition proceedings can now request automated real-time captions for oral proceedings in Zoom to support users with hearing impairments.
The European Patent Office (EPO) is introducing automated real-time captions for oral proceedings by video conference (VICOs) to support equitable access for parties with hearing impairments. This measure reflects the EPO's commitment to inclusivity and accessibility in its digital services and aligns with its broader digitalisation goals of developing a dependable, agile and adaptable IT landscape that evolves in response to user needs.
Real-time captions now available on request
To support parties who rely on real-time textual support, the EPO can now enable automated captions in opposition proceedings. This feature is activated on request by the parties and provides live subtitles generated through speech-recognition technology during VICO sessions on Zoom. While parties are not required to provide medical evidence of a hearing impairment, requests must be submitted in advance, ideally before the final date set under Rule 116 EPC. For technical reasons, requests submitted shortly before or during oral proceedings generally cannot be granted.
How it works
Once captions are enabled, parties can activate them directly in Zoom, choosing to display them in the language of the proceedings or to have them automatically translated into one of the EPO’s other official languages. To ensure accurate processing, all participants must first set the language in which they will speak in Zoom. Captions are generated from the audio of the participants, not from interpretation channels. Requests for this feature are handled confidentially and stored in the non-public part of the file.
Responsible use of the feature
As automated captions rely on machine-generated transcription, the EPO cannot guarantee accuracy, and no rights may be derived from any technical limitations or periods of unavailability. The division may deactivate captions if they interfere with the efficient conduct of proceedings. Captions are intended solely to support participation during the oral proceedings and must not be saved or shared with third parties.
