Our modern world is a highly connected one, with wireless capabilities allowing for seamless communication between virtually any device. This also applies to hearing technology, as Bluetooth has opened the door to the possibilities of just what your hearing aids can be capable of.
While Bluetooth is the most well-known hearing aid connectivity technology, it is not the only option available in modern devices. Here is an overview of the communication options available in modern hearing aids and their advanced features.
Modern hearing aids come with a range of connectivity technology that connects the devices to personal devices, public sound and accessibility systems and even with each other.
Designed to connect two or more electronic devices using high-frequency radio waves, Bluetooth technology can be used to share text, photographs or audio data at a distance of up to 30 feet.
Most people are quite familiar with Bluetooth technology, as it can be found in a large variety of consumer products, including computer mice, earbuds, headphones and cameras.
Many modern hearing aids can now use Bluetooth technology to connect with smartphones, televisions, radios, music players and other accessories like remote microphones.
A much older, but still very capable technology, telecoils are small copper coils that have come standard in most hearing aids for nearly 50 years.
Originally used to help clean up and amplify landline telephone calls for hearing aid wearers, telecoils work as small receivers, picking up electromagnetic signals that can be converted into sound.
Many public venues – including churches, concert halls, theatres and public facilities – use hearing loop systems to transmit sound that telecoils can pick up, providing greater accessibility for hearing aid wearers.
Many modern hearing aids can connect wirelessly, providing numerous advantages. The most commonly used technology is near-field magnetic induction, which allows pairs of hearing aids to stay in constant communication with each other.
By connecting wirelessly, hearing aids are able to work together as a team. the ability to synchronize volume changes and stream sounds from peripherals. Without this ability, modern hearing aids would not be able to properly communicate with the wide array of technologies that exist today and provide a balanced experience.
Many devices now use Bluetooth technology to connect with other devices, and the newest generation of hearing aids are well equipped to take advantage of this. Bluetooth hearing aids are capable of streaming sound from many audio sources.
With the help of an adapter, Bluetooth hearing aids allow you to connect wirelessly to your television set. This means you can watch your favourite shows at the volume that works for you. Your family members won’t get annoyed at you anymore for turning the volume up to 30!
The quality of hearing aids has advanced so much, you can now use them in place of regular headphones by using Bluetooth to stream music or podcasts directly. There’s no need to buy a separate pair of expensive headphones when you’re already wearing advanced technology.
Most Bluetooth hearing aids work in tandem with a smartphone app, allowing a level of customization previously unheard of. This allows you to easily adjust the volume and sound balance levels, manage any audio being streamed, and monitor the battery levels of your devices.
You can also use the smartphone apps to help track down your Bluetooth hearing aids when you’ve lost or misplaced them – a very convenient feature to have.
It can be quite difficult to make out what someone is saying to you when you are in a loud setting like a restaurant, even if you have your hearing aids in. Another helpful feature included in many hearing aid apps is the remote microphone option. Just have the person you are trying to hear speak into a remote mic, and their voice will be pumped right into your hearing aids. Convenient!
Bluetooth hearing aids are available across a wide range of budgets and technology levels. It is important to know the difference between hearing aid technology and hearing aid features.
Hearing aids with a basic technology level are often more affordable, but many still include sought-after features like Bluetooth connectivity. While hearing aids with advanced technology levels can offer more precision, control as well as a more natural feeling sound.
The best way to find out which Bluetooth hearing aids will work for you is to first consult with an audiologist, so they can determine what type of hearing loss you are experiencing and how it is affecting your day-to-day life.
Book a hearing test with Professional Audiology today, so we can help you find the perfect fit for your personal hearing needs.
Visit Professional Audiology Clinic at our central Edmonton or Sherwood Park locations!
Edmonton - Hys Centre
11010-101 Street NW, Unit #107
Sherwood Park – Emerald Hills Office Tower
8005 Emerald Drive, Unit #827 (second floor)
Evening appointments available.