Editorial: Bridging the Gap: AI and Sign Language Recognition– A Path Toward Inclusive Communication

The integration of Artificial Intelligence (AI) and sign language recognition is a hot topic in the field of AI+Science, aimed at addressing communication barriers faced by the deaf and hard-of-hearing communities. This paper examines the integration of AI with sign language recognition, highlighting its potential to bridge communication gaps for the deaf and hard-of-hearing. It reviews the evolution of sign language recognition from data gloves to computer vision and underscores the role of extensive databases. The paper also discusses the benefits of multi-modal AI models in enhancing recognition accuracy. It highlights the importance of government and industry support, ethical data practices, and user-centered design in advancing this technology. The challenges and opportunities of integrating this technology into daily life, including technical, interface, and ethical considerations, are explored, emphasizing the need for user-focused solutions and innovative technical approaches.