Abstract
This chapter explores the evolving practice of distance interpreting (DI), which involves using audio or video communication technology to facilitate interpreting when the interpreter and at least one communication participant are not in the same physical space. While DI is not a new practice, the COVID-19 pandemic accelerated its adoption, making it a widespread modality of interpreting for virtual and hybrid events. The chapter begins with a comprehensive characterization of DI, covering key concepts and systematizing various DI configurations such as virtual interpreting and remote interpreting. It then examines DI practices in conference, legal and healthcare interpreting – the best-documented fields – highlighting the major developments in each field and discussing their implications for the quality and effectiveness of communication with DI. The final section explores current research topics in DI, including interpreters' perceptions, interpreting performance quality, human factors such as stress and fatigue, interactional aspects, working conditions, strategies and the potential for adapting to DI. By tracing each topic across different fields of interpreting, this section aims to highlight shared concerns regarding DI as well as differences across fields in order to gain a nuanced understanding of DI and its impact on interpreting workflows, interpreters' experiences, performance and wellbeing.