PubNub, a Data Stream Network for mobile applications and the Internet of Things (IoT), is working with speakfree, a location-based, instant messaging app that allows refugees to interact with their families, aid workers and other refugees in their immediate surroundings. PubNub is providing speakfree access to its global Data Stream Network and APIs to enable humanitarian organisations and NGOs to communicate directly with refugees and ensure a consistent flow of communication to keep them updated with current news, photos and videos. The app automatically translates messages from aid organisations into six languages and is available on both iOS and Android.
Originally launched in March, speakfree was designed for users to communicate anonymously and in realtime with others in the same geographical area. Aid organisations now communicate with refugees using verified accounts and automatic translations that enable immediate contact in languages such as English, French, Arabic, Urdu and Dari. The addition of chat rooms for individual languages enables refugees to also communicate with each other as well as with local residents in realtime.
Speakfree is available as a free download at the iTunes Store and Google Play. NGOs interested in using speakfree as their primary communication tool to facilitate humanitarian aid can email ngo@speakfree.com.
