Dreaming of Streaming? Hearing Aids Can Do That.
by Lindsay B. Robinson, HIA Program Coordinator
August 21, 2024
In today’s high-tech world, hearing aids include many innovative and sophisticated features. Many modern devices are now equipped with computer technology that connects you with your surroundings in ways you might not expect. One of the most helpful advancements in hearing aid technology is the capability to stream audio directly from consumer devices. Here are some basics on how streaming works and how it can benefit your daily tasks.
How do hearing aids stream?
Streaming simply means sending data between devices. Usually, this connectivity is done between two nearby devices via Bluetooth. The first hearing aid equipped with Bluetooth was released in 2014, and since then, many modern hearing aids have improved Bluetooth capabilities to allow clear, hands-free audio to play directly in your ears.
What can I stream?
- Smartphones – If you have a smartphone with Bluetooth capability, you can enjoy phone conversations, audiobooks, music, and podcasts securely in your ears while your phone is in your pocket or elsewhere in the room. Major manufacturers also offer apps where you can discreetly adjust hearing aid settings on your smartphone.
- Television - Some hearing aids can connect to a TV via a dedicated streaming device or adapter. These devices can transmit TV audio directly to your hearing aids for greater clarity without needing to turn up the volume for everyone in the room.
- Computers and tablets – Stream audio from your computer or tablet just like you would with a smartphone. If you participate in video calls, this can be especially helpful so that you do not have to turn your computer volume high which can cause an echo.
- Remote Microphones – Several hearing aid manufacturers offer microphone accessories which can be used to capture sound from a specific person and stream it directly to your hearing aids. These are often helpful at dinners where there is background noise, in a classroom setting where the microphone can be placed near the teacher, or in other noisy environments.
- Smart Home Devices - Integration with smart home technology, such as voice-activated assistants (i.e. Amazon Alexa, Google Assistant), allows you to stream audio commands and responses directly to your hearing aids.
Whether you’re a tech enthusiast or looking to ease and enhance your daily listening experience, the ability to stream directly to your hearing aids is your key to the future of connectivity. Reach out to a hearing care professional to discuss options that benefit your hearing and lifestyle needs.
