Entering the age of connectivity with hearing aids

No matter how old you are, it can be difficult to keep up with every technological advancement. Some entered the mainstream years ago and became standard, while other tech trends came and went. Flip-phones have faded into history, while things like Bluetooth are still used today.

However, sometimes keeping up with technology is necessary. Many of us have started learning how to use apps like FaceTime, WhatsApp, Spotify, and Netflix to watch television, stream music, and stay in touch with loved ones. If you are a hearing aid wearer you might feel like it's impossible to utilize these features without hassle, but that's not the truth. Many hearing aids have become more connective to keep up with rising trends.

The need for connectivity

If hearing aids stayed the same forever, they would become dated and hard to use. For this reason, we as a hearing aid manufacturer are constantly upping our game to make sure our wearers are comfortable and satisfied. Existing concepts like better audio quality and noise filters are improved, while newer features like Bluetooth connectivity and Own Voice Processing are built upon.

Connectivity has been a focus in recent years, and for good reason. As mentioned above, many people have begun using technology in unique ways. Much of our communication is handled digitally, and things like video calls are easier than ever. We can speak face-to-face without being there in person and enjoy conversations with faraway friends and family members.

However, many people with hearing aids have problems taking phone calls, and dislike using headphones and other clunky headsets. Phone reception and audio quality suffer from time to time, and the added hassle of hearing aids can worsen the issue.

Smartphone compatibility comes into play here, improving the way you make calls and stream audio.

With the latest hearing aid compatible phones, you can alleviate many of the downsides of using cellphones while wearing hearing aids. Hearing aid-compatible phones and television have become the need of the hour. Many of us use our cellphones every day; why not make it easier?

How hearing aids are keeping up

Made for iphone hearing aids

While many hearing aid compatible phones already feature some level of integration, we have been working to improve this, tailoring the experience to the phone's operating system to create a more seamless experience. For example, Apple has enabled the "Made For iPhone" standard in certain hearing aids, which allows you to connect them directly with your smartphone.

StreamLine Mic

Android users have similar options with our StreamLine Mic accessory. This accessory connects to your hearing aids and allows you to stream audio with no trouble. Applications also help with this, allowing users to toggle volume, sound quality, and other features from their phone. These days, Bluetooth has become the preferred method of connection, especially when working with wireless devices like hearing aids. The latest Signia hearing aids in particular feature Bluetooth-connectivity and direct streaming for phone calls.

Non-bluetooth phones or landlines

Those with non-Bluetooth phones or landlines can benefit from hearing aid integration as well. TwinPhone, a program based upon the AutoPhone feature of previous hearing aids, circumvents the need for a streaming device. A magnet is attached to the landline or cellphone receiver, and your hearing aids will detect the signature. As long as you're in range, the TwinPhone program will activate, transferring the phone signal over a wireless link and giving you the benefit of hearing aid compatible phones, even without Bluetooth.

Making the most of connective technology

With connective technology, you can make phone calls, stream audio, and use your phone how you want. Whether this involves FaceTiming, making business calls, or chatting with friends and family, having the freedom to use your phone freely is something many hearing aid wearers long for. However, connectivity doesn't stop at your phone.

StreamLine TV

Many televisions can also use connective technology, allowing you to watch TV without hassle. No cords, no interference, and no rewinding. Bluetooth-enabled hearing aids can use Signia StreamLine TV, which connects to your television and allows you to stream the audio straight to your hearing aids. You control your personal volume, and you can move freely to gather snacks and visit the restroom.

Whether you have age-related hearing loss or have been hard-of-hearing your whole life, it's always worth your time to check out new developments. New technologies might allow you to use your phone, watch TV, and hear the world around you in brand-new ways. Signia offers connectivity no matter what platform you buy, and accessories like StreamLine TV can round out your hearing experience. Technology might be evolving quickly, but we're matching their pace.