Pairing Hearing Aids to Your Smartphone

Smartphones also allow us to pair with other devices we use every day. For instance, if you use hearing aids, connecting them with your smartphone gives you more control and customization over your hearing experience.

You can easily stream audio to your hearing aids, whether a phone call with a close friend or your favorite Spotify playlist, and adjust the sound to ensure high quality while blocking unwanted background noise.

But how do you ensure a seamless connection?

In this step-by-step guide, we'll walk through the process of pairing hearing aids with an iPhone^® and Android^TM device.

Before you pair hearing aids with your smartphone, it's essential to ensure that your devices are compatible and meet the necessary requirements. 

The Federal Communications Commission (FCC) has established hearing-aid compatibility (HAC) standards in digital wireless phones.

Smartphones that are compatible with hearing aids are labeled with "M" or "T" ratings. 

• The "M" rating indicates the phone's potential for interference, with higher ratings proving better for those who use their hearing aid on the microphone setting. 
• The "T" rating indicates the phone's ability to connect with a hearing aid's telecoil. The higher the rating, the better it performs in the telecoil setting.

The compatibility ratings range from one to four, with four being the highest. Therefore, to be considered hearing-aid compatible according to FCC requirements, a phone must have a rating of M3 or M4 for acoustic coupling and T3 or T4 for inductive coupling.

Here are a few tips to help ensure you get the most out of your hearing aids and smartphone integration:

• Always update your hearing aid and smartphone software to ensure compatibility and optimal performance.
• Use your hearing aid manufacturer's smartphone app to customize your hearing aid settings according to your specific needs and preferences.
• Keep your hearing aids and smartphone clean and free of dirt and debris.
• Store your hearing aids in a dry, cool place to prevent damage from moisture or heat.
• Schedule regular check-ups with your hearing care provider to ensure that your devices are functioning correctly and to make any necessary adjustments.

Pairing hearing aids with your smartphone is a simple yet effective way to enhance your communication and hearing experience.

By following the steps outlined in this guide and working closely with your hearing care provider, you can experience the world in a whole new way and  enjoy clear and effortless communication.