Hearing aids that can stream calls and music
TODAY’S hearing aids have really advanced and are no longer just about giving users a full spectrum of sound. They now allow you to stay connected in a whole range of ways, bringing astonishing new benefits for the one in six people in the UK living with hearing loss. These Bluetooth-enabled hearing aid systems, as shown right clipped to jumper, can be used with a variety of devices, including mobile phones, televisions and computers — making keeping in touch with people easier than ever. Traditional hearing aids don’t always operate well with other electronic devices. You often have to remove them if you want to use headphones or a telephone, or listen to a sound system. However, with the latest technology, it’s possible to get connected and stream sound directly through your hearing aids. That’s because of the magic of Bluetooth, which allows devices such as mobile phones and computers to transmit data or voice wirelessly over a short distance. Bluetooth replaces the cables that normally connect devices, while still keeping the communications between them secure. The name is taken from 10th-century Danish king Harald Bluetooth, who is said to have united warring regional factions. Like its namesake, Bluetooth technology allows many devices to join together and interact with each other through a unifying communication standard. Developed in 1994, it uses the same 2.4GHz frequency as some other wireless technologies in the home or office, such as cordless phones and wi-fi routers. This short-range network allows you to send a page to your printer in another room, for example, without an unsightly cable. So who can benefit from Bluetooth hearing aids? The short answer is: virtually everyone. Once you’re connected, which takes just a matter of seconds, you have access to your mobile phone, music library and more. So whereas non-hearing aid wearers have to put their headphones on or earbuds in, you’re already there. Hands-free calls and music on the move are almost permanently at your disposal!