| Hearing Aid UK 2025-11-04 Update |
Bluetooth Hearing Aids for iPhone
What is a Made for iPhone hearing aid?
Hearing aids for iPhone are specialised devices designed to enhance the listening experience for those with hearing loss using Apple's iPhone ecosystem.
Made for iPhone hearing aids leverage the power of technology and connectivity to provide better sound quality, improved customisation, and seamless pairing with your favourite iOS devices.
You might be looking to upgrade your existing hearing aids or want to know a little bit more about this type of Bluetooth hearing aid.
Either way, discover the benefits, features, and technology of Made for iPhone hearing aids below and see whether this type of Bluetooth hearing aid is right for you.
Important note for 2025
The hearing aid industry is transitioning from Apple's proprietary "Made for iPhone" technology to universal Bluetooth LE Audio standards.
This means future hearing aids will work identically across iPhone and Android devices. Many 2024-2025 hearing aids already support both MFi protocols and the newer universal standards, making them future-proof as the industry evolves.
Which iPhone do I need for Made for iPhone hearing aids?
Not all iPhones offer the same hearing aid connectivity experience. Here's what you need to know:
- Minimum requirements: iPhone 5 or later (though older models like iPhone 5 and 6 may have limited functionality with newer hearing aids)
- Optimal performance: iPhone 8 or later - these models offer improved Bluetooth range, better battery efficiency during streaming, and faster pairing
- Latest technology: iPhone 12 and newer support Bluetooth 5.0, providing more stable connections and the ability to connect to multiple devices simultaneously
iOS version matters too
Your iPhone needs iOS 10 or later for basic Made for iPhone hearing aid functionality, but iOS 15 or newer unlocks advanced features like:
- Conversation Boost in Live Listen
- Background sound controls
- Enhanced noise cancellation during calls
- Improved battery management for hearing aid streaming
If you're still using an iPhone 6 or 7, you'll get basic streaming functionality, but you might experience shorter battery life and occasional connection drops.
For the best experience with modern Made for iPhone hearing aids, an iPhone 8 or newer with the latest iOS update is strongly recommended.
iPhone and hearing aids
Apple has pretty much dominated the smartphone industry and market since launching the iPhone, and it is no wonder so many companies and industries want to be associated with the brand.
One of the biggest industries is hearing aids.
Once connected, hearing aid wearers can control their hearing aids directly from their iPhones, using specialised apps provided by the hearing aid manufacturers.
Plus, built-in accessibility features within iOS.
This means you can adjust volume levels, change settings, and even create personalised hearing profiles to optimise your listening experience in different environments.
Hearing aids for iPhones often provide additional features like noise reduction, feedback cancellation, and directional microphones to improve speech understanding while reducing background noise.
Bluetooth hearing aids that work with iPhone
Hearing aids with Bluetooth iPhone connectivity
Also known as MFI hearing aids
This term is acknowledged as both MFI hearing aids and Made for iPhone hearing aids, which means a technology to be paired with iPhones, iPads, and iPods. It is a licensed product that is Apple-specific and includes a variety of devices to connect and integrate.
There is a huge difference between Made for iPhone hearing aids (MFI) and Made for Android hearing aids, as Made for iPhone hearing aids are created and developed to work seamlessly alongside Apple's unique operating system.
They directly connect to Apple phones and other devices without a streamer or intermediary device. Giving you quality audio from electrical devices straight into your hearing aids and both ears.
Hearing aid brands that make Made for iPhone hearing aids
The Made for iPhone devices are a favourite among the tech-savvy consumer and are ever-evolving hearing solutions. Here are the main hearing aid brands that currently offer this Made for iPhone hearing aid connectivity system:
Pure Made for iPhone (MFi) brands: Oticon, Bernafon, Widex, ReSound, Starkey, Signia, and Unitron.
Made for Any Phone (also works with iPhone): Phonak - Note: Phonak transitioned to universal Bluetooth technology in 2020, which works excellently with iPhone but uses different connectivity protocols.
iPhone-exclusive features you won't get with Android
Made for iPhone hearing aids offer specific capabilities that simply aren't available on Android devices:
Live Listen: Turn your iPhone into a remote microphone by placing it near someone speaking (useful in restaurants or lectures) - the audio streams directly to your hearing aids with enhanced clarity.
Siri voice control: Adjust hearing aid volume, switch programmes, or check battery levels using voice commands without touching your phone or hearing aids. Simply say, "Hey Siri, turn up my hearing aid volume".
FaceTime optimisation: iPhone hearing aids are specifically optimised for FaceTime calls, providing clearer audio quality and better noise reduction than standard video calls on other platforms.
Apple Watch integration: Control your hearing aids directly from your wrist - adjust volume, switch programmes, and monitor battery levels without reaching for your iPhone.
Seamless device switching: Your Made for iPhone hearing aids automatically switch between your iPhone, iPad, and Mac as you move between devices, without manual re-pairing.
Find My integration: Some newer Made for iPhone hearing aids can be located using Apple's Find My network if you misplace them.
Accessibility shortcuts: Set up iPhone accessibility shortcuts to quickly toggle hearing aid programmes or adjust settings with a triple-click of your iPhone's side button.
These features are built into iOS specifically for hearing aid users and represent genuine advantages over Android connectivity.
Made for iPhone hearing aids reviews UK
Benefits of Made for iPhone hearing aids
What are the advantages of iPhone hearing aids?
There are many benefits to pairing your Apple electronic devices with hearing aids, and they can be useful tools for both your hearing and lifestyle.
For instance, using your iPhone or iPad as a microphone to assist in conversations in social environments and work conferences means you'll never miss a beat.
But, overall, it's the direct streaming that attracts consumers worldwide as the most convenient solution. However, it is worth remembering that choosing a Made for iPhone hearing aid should not sacrifice a hearing solution that is best for your own unique hearing loss.
The main benefits of Bluetooth hearing aids that are compatible with iPhone are that this type of product provides a direct connection to the following:
Seamless connectivity
Made for iPhone hearing aids are designed to seamlessly connect to Apple devices, such as iPhones and iPads.
This integration allows wearers to effortlessly stream phone calls, music, podcasts, and other audio straight to their hearing aids.
It also eliminates the need for additional accessories or devices, providing a hassle-free listening experience.
Enhanced sound quality
Made for iPhone hearing aids leverage the advanced audio processing capabilities of Apple devices, resulting in superior sound quality.
Wearers can enjoy clear and crisp sound without distortion. The combination of cutting-edge technology and personalised amplification settings.
Ensuring an optimal listening experience tailored to individual hearing needs.
Personalisation and control
Made for iPhone hearing aids often come with accompanying apps that allow wearers to customise their hearing experience.
Through the MFI apps, wearers can adjust volume, treble, bass, and other sound parameters to suit their preferences and environments.
They can create and save personalised profiles for different listening situations, such as restaurants, concerts, or outdoor activities, ensuring optimal hearing in any setting.
Accessibility features
Apple devices offer a range of accessibility features that seamlessly integrate with Made for iPhone hearing aids. For instance, users can activate closed captions and adjust audio balance.
Plus, enable the Live Listen feature to use their iPhone as a remote microphone, amplifying specific sounds or conversations in challenging listening situations.
Pairing Hearing Aids with iPhone
How to pair Bluetooth hearing aids to an iPhone
You might be wondering how to pair Bluetooth hearing aids with an iPhone
Like with most electronic devices, pairing varies; it's no different than pairing hearing aids with your iPhone. As all hearing aid makes and models have different requirements, apps, and features, they all pair hearing aids with iPhones differently.
Once you have decided on a hearing for your iPhone Bluetooth phone (and if that is the right choice for you), your audiologist will go through everything you need to know. They will even pair your mobile phone with your hearing aids at your fitting, so you don't have to connect your hearing aids to your iPhone yourself.
They will also show you how to use Bluetooth hearing aids with iPhone smartphones and the benefits of various features you can access.
How to connect hearing aids to an iPhone
So, how do you use Made for iPhone hearing devices? All Made for iPhone or MFi devices can stream audio and calls, make adjustments, and be connected to the following Apple devices:
iPhone compatibility:
- iPhone 6s or newer recommended for optimal performance with 2024-2025 hearing aids
- iPhone 8 or newer required for the latest hearing aid features and stable connectivity
- Requires iOS 12 or later (iOS 15+ strongly recommended for best performance)
- Older models (iPhone 5-6) may have limited functionality with newer hearing aids
iPad compatibility:
- iPad Pro (all models)
- iPad Air 2 or later
- iPad 5th generation or later
- iPad mini 4 or later
Other Apple devices:
- Apple Watch Series 3 or later (for hearing aid control)
- iPod touch 5th generation or above
- Note: iPod touch was discontinued by Apple in 2022
Bluetooth for iPhone Hearing Aids
Hearing aid and mobile pairing instructions
Below is a simple and generic guide on how to pair your hearing aids to your iPhone. However, if you are still struggling, speak to your audiologist, who will be happy to support you through the process.
For rechargeable hearing aids (most modern models):
- Ensure your Bluetooth technology is switched on
- Place your hearing aids in their charging case for 5 seconds, then remove them
- Go to Settings > Accessibility > Hearing Devices (or Settings > Bluetooth on iOS 14+)
- Your hearing aids should appear under "MFi Hearing Devices" within 30 seconds
- Tap the name of your hearing aids when they appear
- Tap "Pair" on the pairing request for each hearing aid (left and right will pair separately)
- The pairing will take around 1-2 minutes for both devices
For hearing aids with replaceable batteries:
- Ensure your Bluetooth technology is switched on
- Open your battery doors, then close them again (this restarts the hearing aids into pairing mode)
- Go to Settings > Accessibility > Hearing Devices
- Your hearing aids should appear within 30 seconds
- Tap the name of your hearing aids and then tap "Pair"
- The pairing will take around a minute
Connecting Bluetooth hearing aids to an iPhone troubleshooting
Hearing aid won't pair with iPhone? What if I don't have a Made for iPhone hearing aid? Don't worry if your hearing aids don't include a feature for direct Bluetooth streaming from your smartphone to your devices - all manufacturers have solutions for this, even on a basic level.
Bluetooth hearing aids can be compatible with a streamer or an assisted listening device, which will offer a 'pairing' between your smartphone and hearing aids.
The streamer will pick up the Bluetooth signal from your phone and transmit it to your hearing aid via an audio signal or an 'electromagnetic field' - all changeable on the manufacturer's design.
Whilst Made for iPhone hearing aids generally pair reliably, you might occasionally encounter these situations:
- "Hearing Devices" doesn't appear in iPhone settings: Solution: Ensure you're running iOS 10 or later. Update your iPhone through Settings > General > Software Update. Older iOS versions don't support Made for iPhone hearing aids.
- Pairing request doesn't appear after opening battery doors: Solution: Turn Bluetooth off and on again, then restart your iPhone. Open your hearing aid battery doors and wait 10-15 seconds - the pairing screen should appear automatically.
- Only one hearing aid connects to iPhone: Solution: Your hearing aids need to be paired with each other first before pairing with your iPhone. Your audiologist can reset this pairing - it's a common issue that takes 2 minutes to fix.
- Hearing aids keep disconnecting during calls: Solution: Check that Low Power Mode isn't enabled on your iPhone, as this can interfere with Bluetooth connections. Also, ensure your iPhone case isn't blocking the Bluetooth signal.
- "Connection Unsuccessful" message appears: Solution: Forget the hearing aids from your iPhone's Bluetooth settings, restart both devices, and start the pairing process fresh. Sometimes old pairing data causes conflicts.
- Can't find hearing aids after iPhone software update: Solution: iOS updates occasionally reset accessibility settings. Re-pair your hearing aids following the standard process - your hearing aid programmes and settings remain intact.
- Audio quality is poor during iPhone streaming: Solution: Close unnecessary apps running in the background, as these consume iPhone processing power. Also, check you're within 1-2 metres of your iPhone without walls between you.
If these solutions don't resolve your issue, contact your audiologist. Most Made for iPhone hearing aid problems are software-related and easily fixed remotely.
Summary
Made for iPhone (MFi) hearing aids are designed to connect directly to Apple devices like iPhones and iPads, allowing users to stream calls, music, and media without extra accessories.
They offer personalised sound settings, noise reduction, and features like Live Listen. Most top hearing aid brands offer MFi models, and pairing is easy via iOS settings or with help from an audiologist. Non-MFi devices can still connect using a Bluetooth streamer.
Related Bluetooth hearing aids reading:
Need more help with hearing aids for iPhone?
Made for iPhone hearing aids revolutionise the way those with hearing loss interact with their environment, friends, and family.
By using the power of Apple's ecosystem, these devices provide accessibility, convenience, superior sound quality, and seamless integration.
If you would like to know more about iPhone-compatible hearing aids, please call us free on 0800 567 7621 to speak with one of our audiologists, who will be happy to assist you.
Our specialist service includes:
Do not spend hundreds of pounds without getting a second opinion from us.
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Common questions about Made for iPhone hearing aids UK
A Made for iPhone hearing aid is a technology that can 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.
What can Made for iPhone hearing aids connect to?
They can wirelessly stream audio from iPhones & iPad for calls, music, apps and more. They can also be used to personalise your listening experience by using them as a remote control via a hearing aid app.
How can Made for iPhone hearing aids support my hearing?
When paired, they transmit an audio feed to your hearing aids directly. This then gives you clear conversation and ultimately makes it easier to use the phone and listen to audio.
Who does In-Ear Made for iPhone hearing aids?
Up until recently, Resound was the only hearing aid manufacturer that offered Made for iPhone ITE devices. Now Oticon, Bernafon, Signia, Phonak and Starkey have brought this style of hearing aid onto the market. It is worth noting that this type of aid might not be suitable for everyone - it all depends on such things as the size of your ear canal and dexterity.
However, your audiologist will go through all the different ITE models available and will advise which one would be better or even if this style would be right for you.
What is the cost of Made for iPhone hearing aids?
What about iPhone hearing aids cost? All Bluetooth hearing aids are increasing in popularity and becoming more widespread because of this. The good news is that due to the rise of demand - Bluetooth hearing aids prices have dropped and are now only a fraction more expensive than traditional devices. Therefore, as a rough guide, this type of hearing aid roughly starts from £795 - £1895 per aid.
Can you get NHS Made for iPhone hearing aids?
What about Made for iPhone hearing aids NHS? Whilst the NHS provides a credible hearing health service and some good hearing solutions - they have just recently been able to offer Bluetooth hearing aids, but like with all NHS hearing aids there will be limitations on technology, model and style. Advanced hearing aids with Bluetooth capability are only available with private hearing care.
What about iPhone hearing aids app?
Apple now has many options for hearing aid wearers to use with their iPhone smartphones - so you can remotely adjust your hearing aid settings at the touch of your fingertips. iPhone hearing aids all have compatible apps so you can make adjustments on the go such as: volume, frequency, battery level, remote care with your local audiologist and much more.
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