Bluetooth Hearing Aids: Embracing the Future

The world of hearing aids has come a long way in recent years, with Bluetooth technology greatly enhancing the listening experience for individuals with hearing loss. No longer do you need to struggle with clunky devices and limited access to everyday sounds; Bluetooth hearing aids now offer seamless connectivity and a plethora of features to make day-to-day life more enjoyable. 

History of Bluetooth Hearing Aids

The first Bluetooth hearing aid, the Starkey ELI, was introduced in 2005, six years after Bluetooth consumer devices became available. It was a small module that connected to a regular hearing aid. Subsequently, true Bluetooth hearing aids were developed, but most of them required an additional device, a wireless streamer, to transmit sound alongside the smartphone and hearing aid.

In recent years however, direct connectivity has entered the mainstream in the form of "Made for iPhone" (MFi) and "Made for All Phone" (MFA) hearing aids. Made for iPhone hearing aids are specifically designed to integrate seamlessly with Apple's ecosystem. They utilize Apple's proprietary technology to establish a direct connection between the hearing aids and iPhones, iPads, and other Apple devices. On the other hand, Made for All Phone hearing aids are designed to be compatible with all smartphones, regardless of the operating system. This move away from external streamers and more towards direct connection really allowed bluetooth to take off and become a wildly popular feature.

Reasons to Love Bluetooth Hearing Aids

Let's delve into the reasons why we believe Bluetooth hearing aids should be on your radar. 

1. Enhanced media listening experience

Say goodbye to the days of struggling to adjust earbuds or missing out on your favorite tunes. Bluetooth hearing aids have revolutionized the way you can listen to music, podcasts, and even connect to your TV. Leveraging crystal clear sound quality and custom equalizer settings available through app integration, your hearing aids can easily transform into high-quality wireless earbuds, ready for all your streaming needs.

2. Improved phone communication

Phone conversations can be incredibly challenging and anxiety-inducing for individuals with hearing loss. The frustration of straining to understand speech over the phone can often lead to feelings of isolation and exclusion. However, there is a solution that can transform this experience and make speaking on the phone easier and more enjoyable: Bluetooth hearing aids. These remarkable devices have the power to revolutionize the way you communicate, offering clear sound tailored specifically to your hearing needs.

Imagine being able to have phone conversations without struggling to catch every word, without having to constantly ask people to repeat themselves. Bluetooth hearing aids make this a reality. By seamlessly streaming phone calls directly to your hearing aids, these devices eliminate the obstacles that hearing loss often presents during phone communication.

3. Better video call experience

Staying connected with loved ones has never been easier as Bluetooth hearing aids enhance video calls through platforms like FaceTime. 

Bluetooth-enabled hearing aids are designed to wirelessly connect to your devices, including smartphones, tablets, and computers. By linking your hearing aids to your video call device, you can directly stream the audio from the call into your hearing aids. This enables you to hear the conversation more clearly and with improved sound quality, reducing any distortion or background noise that may affect your ability to understand the conversation.

4. Simplified navigation with Google Maps

With Bluetooth hearing aids connected to your phone or car, receiving directions from Google Maps has never been clearer or more convenient. This technology enhances your ability to understand directions and navigate with ease.

5. Easy personal adjustments

Many Bluetooth hearing aids come with companion apps that allow users to control and adjust their hearing aid settings remotely. Users can adjust volume, change listening programs, and fine-tune settings to suit their preferences in different listening environments, all from their smartphone or tablet.

Gone are the days of scheduling appointments with your audiologist for minor adjustments. Bluetooth hearing aids connect directly to an app on your phone, allowing you to alter volume, change programs, and even create custom settings based on your environment. This technology lets you take control of your listening experience to best suit your needs in various situations.

Bluetooth hearing aids are a remarkable development that offers significant benefits for people with hearing loss. With the proper support from a hearing care professional, you can embrace the future and enjoy the incredible advantages that Bluetooth-enabled hearing aids have to offer. Don't miss out on conquering the world of sound – explore the possibilities of Bluetooth hearing aids today!

Written by
Reviewed by
Dr. Lance F. Greer, Au.D.
First Doctor of Audiology in Southern Utah
Read full bio

Dr. Lance F. Greer, Au.D—He has been practicing with Kimball for the past 23 years and is a co-owner and provider in the practice with over 24 years of experience.

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