Hearing aid technology has made incredible strides in recent years, offering features and capabilities that many people may not be aware of. One of the most exciting advancements is the integration of Bluetooth technology, which allows hearing aids to connect seamlessly with smartphones and other electronic devices.
With Bluetooth, you can easily stream audio directly into your hearing aids, whether it’s your favorite music, podcasts or phone calls, making everyday activities like walking through a park more enjoyable. It enhances the listening experience and keeps you connected to the technology you use regularly.
How Bluetooth Works
Bluetooth operates by using high-frequency radio waves to transmit data securely between two or more devices. There are two primary Bluetooth options: Bluetooth Classic and Bluetooth Low Energy (BLE).
Since hearing aids are compact and have limited battery capacity, most use BLE. This option consumes less power while still delivering excellent sound quality, allowing you to use your hearing aids longer without draining the battery.
What Bluetooth Hearing Aids Can Do
Bluetooth connectivity brings several benefits to hearing aid users, allowing you to:
- Stream audio to one or both ears: You can decide whether to send the audio signal to one hearing aid or both, depending on your listening preferences.
- Customize your listening experience: You can adjust the streamed audio to match your hearing aid settings, ensuring optimal sound quality whether you’re listening to music, a podcast or an audiobook.
- Reduce background noise: In environments like busy restaurants or crowded social gatherings, Bluetooth technology can help reduce unwanted background noise. This makes it easier to focus on the sounds you want to hear, like a conversation or a performance.
- Use your hearing aids as wireless earbuds: Bluetooth-enabled hearing aids allow you to stream music and other media directly to your devices without needing to swap out your hearing aids for earbuds or headphones. This is especially convenient for music lovers, as it means fewer interruptions throughout the day.
- Connect multiple devices with a streamer: A streamer is an assistive device that enables you to connect your hearing aids to multiple devices simultaneously. For example, you can listen to a TV show on your tablet while still being connected to your phone. If a call comes in, you can quickly switch from the tablet audio to your phone.
- Adjust TV volume independently: With Bluetooth, you can control the volume of your hearing aids separately from the television’s volume. This is particularly useful when watching TV with family or friends, as it allows everyone to set their own comfortable listening levels.
- Use your smartphone as a remote control: Many Bluetooth-enabled hearing aids can be managed through a smartphone app, allowing you to adjust settings, switch modes and control your device without touching the hearing aid itself.
If you’re interested in exploring Bluetooth-enabled hearing aids or need guidance from a hearing aid expert, contact Audiology Associates of Redding today to schedule an appointment.