In this review, the development of communication systems and devices that convey language tactually is examined, first from an historical perspective focusing on the communities who use the tactile modality to substitute for impairments in vision and/or hearing. Then, the more recent developments in wearable tactile communication systems for conveying text and speech to those without sensory impairments are reviewed. The performance of tactile display technology developed for these user communities is discussed in the context of the proficiency achieved by skilled users of natural methods of tactile communication. In tracing the history of tactile devices used to convey language, it is evident that technological advances in other domains, such as screen readers and speech synthesizers for the visually impaired and cochlear implants for those with hearing loss, have had a profound impact on the requirements for effective tactile language systems. For some communities, such as the Deafblind, it is essential that the tactile communication platform is bi-directional so that the user can both send and receive language. Devices developed to address such needs have yet to achieve commercial success. Recent research on wearable tactile displays has highlighted the importance of extensive training for learning and retaining languages presented tactually.