Short definition
Video Remote Interpreting refers to remote interpreting where the interpreter is connected from a different location via a video link.
Detailed explanation
VRI emphasizes that the interpreter works remotely but with video. Through a video connection, they can see everyone involved and take in facial expressions, gestures, and documents – a major advantage over the purely audio-based ARI format. VRI is especially common in healthcare, justice, and government settings, where qualified language mediation is needed quickly and traveling would be uneconomical or impossible.
VRI can be either consecutive or simultaneous. In Germany, DIN 8578 applies to consecutive remote interpreting; ISO 24019 (platform) and ISO 20108 (video/audio) apply to simultaneous remote interpreting. As with all remote formats, quality depends on video, audio, and latency – and on a quiet, well-equipped working environment. Professional providers therefore rely on hubs rather than improvised home setups.
Relevance in this subject area
VRI combines the flexibility of remote interpreting with the advantage of visual context. It's now standard in many institutional settings – provided the technology works.
Practical example
At a clinic, an interpreter is connected via video on a tablet for a consultation. She sees the patient and doctor and interprets consecutively – following the requirements of DIN 8578.
Related terms
Audio Remote Interpreting (ARI), Video Conference Interpreting (VCI), Remote interpreting, DIN 8578, ISO 24019