Bluetooth hearing aids are a type of hearing aid that uses Bluetooth technology to wirelessly connect to other devices, such as smartphones, tablets, and computers. This allows users to stream audio directly to their hearing aids, as well as control them using their phone or remote control.
But why are Bluetooth hearing aids beneficial, how do they work and how do they help you stay connected? Here, we talk about Bluetooth hearing aids and everything you need to know whether you want to upgrade your existing hearing aids or are a new hearing aid wearer.
►Click here to go to iPhone Bluetooth hearing aids
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So, how do Bluetooth hearing aids work? In short, they are wireless communication systems between devices. Bluetooth hearing aids transmit radio waves through high-frequency channels to connect to another source.
They are paired with each other to communicate data safely by changing frequency continuously - thousands of times per second. This clever ‘wireless radio’ technology was developed in 1994 and provided the market with two or more electronic devices that were able to switch data between each other wirelessly – using radio waves.
Hearing aids with Bluetooth connectivity enhance your everyday life and keep you connected to both iOS and Android phones, as well as tablets. You can also connect Bluetooth hearing aids to TV systems and other devices in your own home
Historically, hearing aids held limitations for hearing aid users in regards to accessing audio devices like mobile phones. You can imagine this to be a frustration for wearers. For example, if they wanted to jog and listen to music at the same time - they would have to remove their hearing aids to switch to headphones.
Bluetooth hearing aids have come a long way - today's digital hearing aids are so much better - and accommodate both connections to audio devices and streaming sound straight to your hearing aids. Additionally, pretty much all Bluetooth hearing aids have a hearing aid app that you can download onto your mobile. Accessing discreet adjustments on the go, whenever you need to.
Today's Bluetooth hearing aids cater to all types and levels of hearing loss from mild to severe. They are extremely convenient for those who use Bluetooth-enabled devices like tablets, iPads, TVs, and smartphones. Using such Bluetooth technology will allow your hearing aids to enhance your everyday life, making it easier whilst giving you more control and more freedom.
But will you use the technology? Bluetooth hearing aids connect you to your friends, loved ones, and the world seamlessly. However, if you do not use Bluetooth devices and have a standard smartphone - you may not get the most out of Bluetooth hearing aids.
Your audiologist will go through what you want from your hearing aids, what your hearing loss needs, and also what would enhance your current lifestyle. It is also important that you discuss what Bluetooth-enabled devices you have already that you'd like to connect with your hearing aids and whether the technology is compatible.
Historically the concept of Bluetooth hearing aids described only the devices that have a direct connection to a mobile phone to enable audio streaming. In short, when the industry spoke about Bluetooth hearing aids, they were referring to Made for iPhone hearing aids (also known as MFI).
The Made for iPhone hearing aids came onto the market with Resound’s LiNX platform in 2014 – their first iPhone device. This was then quickly mirrored by Starkey’s Halo hearing aids and now the industry has seen a sea of change with manufacturers adding to their Bluetooth hearing aid ranges.
If your hearing aids don't incorporate direct streaming, don't worry, there are plenty of hearing aid streamers on the market that connect you. What are Bluetooth hearing aid streamers? Pretty much all the hearing aid manufacturers have Bluetooth-compatible hearing aid streamers. It ensures fast, low-energy, and reliable wireless audio streaming directly to your hearing aids.
Streamers are effectively the 'go-between' between your hearing aids and your electronic device.
Truly Made for any Phone Bluetooth hearing aids are currently only available from the Sonova Group - who brought you Phonak, Unitron and Audio Nova. The hearing aids with this strategy are Phonak's Paradise and Unitron's Blu models.
Offering you the flexibility of having connectivity to any smartphone or mobile phone, whether it's iPhone or Android, with Bluetooth capabilities - for audio and call streaming (and pretty much any electronic device with Bluetooth).
Bluetooth hearing aids for iPhone are also acknowledged as both MFI and Made for iPhone hearing aids - which basically means a technology to be paired with iPhones, iPad and iPods. It is a licensed product that is Apple-specific and includes a variety of devices to connect and integrate.
You might want to consider a rechargeable option, if you are buying Bluetooth hearing aids compatible with iPhone, in order to be able to take full advantage of the direct Bluetooth hearing aids streaming capabilities.
Before Android 10, Android developers were having a bit of a problem. They hadn't invested enough time to research, develop and launch hearing aid integration. Android displayed similar features to that of the Made for iPhone hearing aids - but had always needed a streamer, whilst Apple was a direct connection. All that has changed.
Over the last few years, Google has been dedicated to making Bluetooth hearing aids for Android phones more accessible to the hearing impaired. The company launched an app called Sound Amplifier - turning your Android smartphone into a hearing aid.
Even though hearing aid manufacturers saw huge potential and benefits to Bluetooth hearing aid technology over the years, the development hasn’t been plain sailing. Originally, the transferred audio wasn’t of great quality and relied on huge amounts of power. Due to this, most brands opted to design streamers to bridge the gap between connectivity and sound quality – a middleman of sorts.
Ultimately, this resulted in both launching the first-ever Made for iPhone hearing aids with a direct connection. Also allows you to access the world through your hearing aids using mobile phone features and apps.
Pretty much all hearing aid manufacturers now have Made for iPhone Bluetooth hearing aid models on offer, but it is worthwhile knowing that you may need a connective device – a streamer - for some models for hearing aid mobile phone compatibility.
Are there advantages of Bluetooth hearing aids? Most consumers and audiologists would say they were better, even though the Bluetooth hearing aid connectivity doesn’t ensure better-performing hearing aids.
One of the main benefits of Bluetooth hearing aids is their ability to connect to a wide range of devices, including phones, TVs, and music players. This allows users to stream audio directly to their hearing aids, which can be especially useful for people who have difficulty hearing in noisy environments or who have difficulty understanding speech.
Another benefit of Bluetooth hearing aids is their ability to be controlled remotely. Many Bluetooth hearing aids come with a remote control or app that allows users to adjust the volume, switch between listening programs, and control other features. This can be especially convenient for people who have difficulty manipulating small buttons or who have dexterity issues.
In addition to these features, Bluetooth hearing aids also offer several other benefits. For example, many models come with noise reduction and feedback reduction technologies, which can help to improve the overall listening experience.
They may also come with directional microphones, which can help to improve speech understanding in noisy environments. Below are some industry terms to understand whilst you are researching and finding out if Bluetooth hearing aids are right for you.
These connect directly to iPhones without an additional streamer for streaming calls and audio. MFI hearing aid devices don’t always connect to Android phones and might need a streamer to be successful. This will, no doubt, change as the future of audiology and its technology evolves.
These, in the past, still needed an additional streamer, but since Android 10 – the future of direct connection is looking brighter.
This, at the moment, only applies to the Sonova group hearing aids – like the Phonak Paradise and the Unitron Blu. These connect to any mobile phone with Bluetooth capabilities and pretty much any Bluetooth device.
It is important to bear in mind that whilst some Bluetooth hearing aids are Made for iPhone, they may still need a streamer to benefit from the wireless technology. This would be an additional cost that is usually between £200 to £500 - depending on the brand and device needed.
Your audiologist will discuss all the options available to you, if a streamer is needed, and you can also purchase these directly from them.
These are not a direct connection and need a streamer to connect to a mobile phone and to stream audio (using an app). They do connect to Android devices the same way once you have said streamer in place.
With the introduction of Bluetooth 4.0 - this innovation, as well as the rise of lithium-ion rechargeable batteries, are the reasons why direct connectivity Bluetooth hearing aids are now becoming more widely available.
It has become rather mainstream and, therefore, results in many Bluetooth hearing aids prices being no more expensive than ones that aren’t. The average cost of Bluetooth hearing aids start from £795 - £1895 per aid. You can view our price of Bluetooth hearing aids here
Even if you need an additional hearing aid streamer to benefit from wireless connectivity and functions, Bluetooth hearing aids offer a plethora of advantages to hearing aid wearers. Here are our audiologist's top four below.
You can control sound more easily with Bluetooth hearing aids, as sound can be adjusted remotely through your smartphone or using a streamer. This means you will have full control and management of your hearing aids at your fingertips. This is a huge benefit to those who wear discreet hearing aids and cannot gain access to any external controls to make adjustments.
You can stream sound directly to both hearing aids with Bluetooth hearing aids. For example, when you are on the phone you can stream sound into just one hearing aid device so you can continue to hear your surrounding sounds. Alternatively, you can stream music into both hearing aids, like you would headphones.
This benefits you because you will always have a natural and realistic listening experience.
Because Bluetooth hearing aids work in sync using binaural hearing technology, they mimic the natural localisation of both your own ears. This benefits you because it makes it easier to know where sound is coming from. Hearing aids without Bluetooth usually process sound separately, which can sometimes make figuring out the direction of sound more challenging.
Hearing aid streamers can often be connected to several Bluetooth-enabled devices, which makes it a lot easier to switch between them and the sounds you want to be streamed into your hearing aids.
Before you consider purchasing your Bluetooth hearing aids, reflect on your needs and priorities, as well as discuss your queries, anxieties, and expectations with your audiologist. At the end of the day, you mustn't be paying for what you ultimately don't need.
Here is our consumer tick list for those who are thinking about upgrading or purchasing Bluetooth hearing aids and some questions you might want to ask your audiologist:
With less stigma, better audio technology, and advanced Bluetooth hearing aid technology and features - it is now a great time to trial hearing solutions and experience the benefits they bring.
How do we choose the best Bluetooth hearing aids? Finding the right Bluetooth hearing aids for you will depend entirely on your unique preferences, hearing loss needs, budget, and what you typically want from your hearing aids. In so many ways, there is no one-size-fits-all answer here.
However, to help you find the best Bluetooth hearing aids on the market, we have consulted a panel of two of our audiologists to provide recommendations based on their own experiences and expertise.
Our Bluetooth hearing aids reviews are based on brand reputation, customer reviews of the product, recent studies, and our audiologist's experience. So, what are the best Bluetooth hearing aids in the UK and what Bluetooth hearing aids do we advise? Let's find out...
Why buy?
Well, these hearing aids arguably have the strongest and most stable Bluetooth connectivity along with advanced personalisation. They boast Bluetooth Classic, giving you a reliable connection and hands-free calls from both iPhone and Android wireless devices.
Like the Paradise, these include the PRISM chipset allows for twice the memory we saw in Marvel. This hearing aid combines advanced sound quality, motion sensors, a personable hearing experience, and digital solutions along with universal and multiple Bluetooth connectivity.
Using Phonak's Motion Sensors, Lumity can control Bluetooth features with a double-tap of your ear. So, you can accept/end calls, pause/resume streaming, and ask Google for driving instructions with a simple tap.
Lumity digital hearing aids allow for eight Bluetooth-enabled devices to be paired, while two can be simultaneously connected.
Why buy?
A small, discreet rechargeable custom In Ear offering with the innovative AX platform technology. This In-Ear rechargeable hearing aid brings optimum hearing technology and discretion that is custom-made for extra comfort every day. Custom-made means that the hearing aid itself is adapted to fit your unique ear shape or 'ear anatomy', so it is even more discreet.
The Insio offers state-of-the-art Bluetooth connectivity to both iPhone and Android devices to stream calls, music, and TV audio directly through to your devices. You can also enjoy the benefits of connecting to the Signia app and Signia Assistant for further personalisation and an AX (augmented) listening experience.
The Insio AX incorporates the successful Augmented Xperience platform that was first introduced in the Signia Pure Charge&Go AX range back in May 2021. This platform offers a unique hearing experience within a high-end hearing device.
Resulting in a reduction in hearing effort and clear speech in conversation - even on the go and in any hearing situation. All in all, this device achieves a great balance of sound quality for wearers with mild to moderate hearing loss who want great Bluetooth features.
It does this by using two separate processors. One is to focus on sounds like speech and the second is to focus on background noise.
Why buy?
A popular Bluetooth hearing aid with AI-powered natural sound. This Oticon hearing aid is a discreet rechargeable style with technology for you to gain from all relevant sounds and supports how your brain works naturally.
Advancing on their already successful BrainHearing technology philosophy and combining the Deep Neural Network and the new Polaris platform. This means you will benefit from more of the meaningful sounds around you, more balance and clarity of all the little details and more captures of the special moments that sounds bring to life.
When it comes to connectivity, More ticks all the boxes. You can connect to the full range of Oticon accessories (with the exception of the CROS) and performs really well with most mobile phones. Oticon has also stated that the Real will work with the new Bluetooth protocol - LE Audio, which will effectively be the new generation of reliable audio streaming. Also making this hearing aid future-proof.
In fact, Real mirrors a lot of the benefits found in Audeo Lumity at a similar price. One of the differences is how these two products deal with background noise. Whilst Real uses a more natural open sound portrayed in 360 degrees that mirrors the way our brain naturally hears (this is where the AI comes in) - Lumity focuses more on speech to reduce the effect of background noise.
►Click here to view Phonak Bluetooth hearing aids
►Click here to view Oticon Bluetooth hearing aids
►Click here to view Widex Bluetooth hearing aids
►Click here to view Signia Bluetooth hearing aids
►Click here to view Unitron Bluetooth hearing aids
►Click here to view Bernafon Bluetooth hearing aids
►Click here to view Resound Bluetooth hearing aids
►Click here to view Audio Service Bluetooth hearing aids
Despite the many benefits, there are also some potential drawbacks to consider when it comes to Bluetooth hearing aids. One potential issue is that they may require frequent charging, as they rely on battery power. In addition, Bluetooth hearing aids may be more expensive than other types of hearing aids, and they may not be covered by all insurance plans.
Overall, Bluetooth hearing aids can be a useful and convenient option for people with hearing loss, particularly those who want to be able to connect to a wide range of devices and control their hearing aids remotely.
You might be new to hearing aids, or you might be thinking about upgrading and wondering which device would be right for you or you simply might want more information on Bluetooth hearing aids on the market.
Are Bluetooth hearing aids better for me? If you are considering this type of hearing aid, it's a good idea to speak with an audiologist to determine the best option for your specific needs.
Call us free on 0800 567 7621 and one of our experts will be happy to advise you. Or click on a button below to discover more about the different types of Bluetooth hearing aids.
Do not spend hundreds of pounds without getting a second opinion from us.
Hearing aid apps generally connect directly to various smart devices using Bluetooth, so wearers can control their hearing aid features and settings like programs and volume. Program management is a great tool, as you can use a range of feature sets in different environments to help you hear better. For instance, hearing speech clearly whilst walking in the park with a friend.
By using a TV Adapters you can sit back and enjoy your favourite programmes with audio straight to your Bluetooth hearing aids. You can control the volume of your TV, balance environmental sounds and easily switch between multiple Bluetooth-enabled devices.
In reality, you probably won't be able to purchase Bluetooth hearing aids online. There are some cheaper and less reliable OTC devices available, but most hearing aid brands do not operate like this. You will need to visit your local audiologist to access this type of hearing aid.
Bluetooth hearing aids are considered safe for use by regulatory agencies. Bluetooth technology uses low levels of radiofrequency (RF) radiation to transmit data wirelessly between devices.
Yes, flying with Bluetooth hearing aids is safe. Bluetooth technology uses radio waves to transmit data, which is not affected by changes in altitude. Therefore, it is safe to use Bluetooth hearing aids on an airplane.
Generally, it is safe to use a pacemaker and Bluetooth hearing aids together, but it is important to take certain precautions to ensure their safe use.
Overall, as long as you take these precautions and follow the advice of your healthcare provider, it should be safe to use both a pacemaker and Bluetooth hearing aids.
What about Bluetooth hearing aids and TV? With hearing aid TV Adapters you can sit back and enjoy your favourite programmes. Most hearing aid brands also have hearing aid apps that can give you extra convenience when used together with a TV Adapter. Such as:
Are Bluetooth hearing aids available on the NHS? The NHS is now able to offer Bluetooth hearing aids. However, the decision does lie with your local GP or NHS Trust to ultimately decide whether you need them or not along with why you feel like you could benefit from them. However, like with all NHS hearing aids - the choice and technology will be limited.
When we refer to a product as 'Latest Launch', we mean it is the latest to be released on the market.
When we refer to a product as 'New', we mean that the product is the newest hearing aid model on the market.
When we refer to a product as 'Superseded', we mean that there is a newer range available which replaces and improves on this product.
When we refer to a product as an 'Older Model', we mean that it is has been superseded by at least two more recent hearing aid ranges.