Bluetooth

Bluetooth technology uses radio waves to wirelessly send and receive information between devices over short distances. This allows users to stream audio and music from their phone, tablet or computer directly to their hearing device.

Bluetooth compatibility

Deaf children and young people with Bluetooth-enabled hearing aids or implants can stream audio directly to their hearing device without needing additional equipment. To check if your device supports Bluetooth, ask the manufacturer or your audiologist. 

The websites below have information on the Bluetooth functionality of devices commonly provided by the NHS: 

• Advanced Bionics
• Cochlear
• MED-EL
• Oticon (hearing aids)
• Oticon Medical (hearing implants)
• Phonak

If your hearing device doesn't have Bluetooth, you may be able to wirelessly connect to multimedia devices using a streamer or radio aid.

Auracast

Auracast is a new Bluetooth innovation that allows audio to be transmitted to multiple devices. It will enable public locations – such as airports, cinemas and places of worship – to send audio wirelessly to compatible Bluetooth devices, like headphones and hearing devices. For example, when travelling on public transport, passengers will be able to hear announcements through their hearing devices.

Auracast has the potential to be used in a variety of other situations and environments. For more information, visit the Auracast website or read RNID’s report on Auracast.