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Before Android 10, Android developers were having a bit of a problem with their Made for Android devices. 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.Â
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Over the last few years, Google has been dedicated to making Android more accessible to the hearing impaired. The company launched an app called Sound Amplifier - turning your Android smartphone into a hearing aid.
The downside to the Android 10, is that it can only be compatible with hearing aids and mobiles from 2019 when this was launched. However, this new Android development meant that people with hearing loss and this type of smartphone could now stream music, calls and other audio directly from their Google device.
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All Bluetooth hearing aids are increasing in popularity and becoming more widespread because of this. The good news is that due to the rise in demand - Bluetooth hearing aids prices have dropped and are now only a fraction more expensive than traditional devices.Â
Below is the Android logo and Made for Android app. This is the one you need to look out for when you have this type of smartphone. It means you can download and pair the hearing aid software and features.
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In 2019 both Resound and Starkey showed innovation by launching Made for Android hearing aids using low energy Bluetooth technology. With the streaming done using Bluetooth Low Energy (BLE), both hearing aids and phones can have enough battery power to get through an entire day.
However, this was only successful on recent Android phones operating with the Android 10 platform - back then it was only Google Pixel 3 and 4 that were compatible, but more and more are becoming available for compatibility. The current Made for Android  (and iPhone) hearing aids are Starkey Livio, Phonak Marvel, Unitron Discover and Resound Quattro.
The Made for Android hearing aids sector of the market is developing rapidly, so we are sure to see a few more Apple/Android compatible Bluetooth hearing aids in the near future. However, it is important to remember that some Android-compatible hearing aids are unable to stream podcasts, music and movie content, unlike the hearing aids that connect to Apple’s iPhone.
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So, how do you connect hearing aids to Android mobile phones? With most electronic devices, pairing varies, it's no different pairing hearing aids with Android. As all hearing aid makes and models have different requirements, apps and features - they all pair hearing aids with Android phones differently.Â
Once you have decided on a hearing for your Android 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 Android phone yourself.
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Below are some recommendations of the best Made for Android hearing aids on the current market by our audiologists. We endeavour to update this information as and when new hearing aid ranges are launched.
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The Livio Edge and other Livio AI range all connect to Apple and Android devices via Bluetooth so you can use the Thrive Hearing Control app to easily manage your hearing aid settings and access an array of features. Using Bluetooth connectivity you can enhance the streaming performance to enjoy music and TV programmes like never before. Â
For some Android devices, you may need a Remote Microphone, depending on the age of the phone technology you are using, to access some connectivity and calls.
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You can answer calls with the touch of a button and stream them to your 'healthable' hearing aids. But, we think it's the Livio ecosystem that's the main pull here. It is unlike anything previously available to hearing aid wearers.Â
It enables patients to improve their listening experience, manages their wellness and shares their health data with their audiologist. The audiologist can observe any of this remotely via the Telecare facility.
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Resound ONE is another Made for Any Phone Bluetooth hearing aid to add to their other existing ranges - like the LiNX Quattro. Making this a direct connection to both iPhone and Android smartphones for calls, streaming and hearing aid control to both ears.
This means that the ONE hearing aid range offers you the ability to stream from any audio source – also directly from your iOS and Android devices. This is done in stereo with no need for an intermediate device. And with clearer, fuller and richer sounds, you can enjoy the finer details of music and soundtracks – all streamed directly to your Resound hearing aids.
Please be aware that achieving full streaming compatibility with Android devices requires at least Android v10 and Bluetooth 5.0. However, If direct Android streaming is not supported by your hearing aids or Android smartphone, you can use the Resound PhoneClip+ to stream sound.
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The rechargeable option in this Made for Android range gives you the comfort of not having to worry about your battery life. Resound is also now offering a more premium charging system needing no power outlet, which gives you up to three days of quick charging convenience - even on the go.
Compatible with many Android models such as Samsung, Sony, and LG. It includes many features such as geotagging that switches between location-specific settings, and a program for locating a lost hearing aid. The Smart 3D App also has a tinnitus management program to help you find relief for your tinnitus symptoms, both during the day and at night.
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Requirement for the app:Â To successfully run the Resound apps is iOS 12 or later and the watch support requires watch OS 5 and iOS 12 or later.
This app gives the wearer full control of their hearing aids by using their smartphone. You can adjust volume, switch memories and manage other settings. The most impressive features are Healthable - it uses AI to track your brain and body activity with Thrive Assistant, Translate, Transcribe and Self Check.
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Requirement for the app:Â The Thrive Hearing Control app runs on Android 7.0 and higher.
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Phonak hearing aids for Android phone | View Product List
Unitron hearing aids for Android phone | View Product List
Resound hearing aids for Android phone | View Product List
Starkey hearing aids for Android phone | View Product List
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Android Bluetooth Connection / App Features Available with Accessories Links:
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Bernafon hearing aids for Android phone | View Product List
Widex hearing aids for Android phone | View Product List
Signia hearing aids for Android phone | View Product List
Oticon hearing aids for Android phone | View Product List
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In our experience, the hearing aid you choose should not solely come down to direct Bluetooth connectivity alone. Your priority should always be what hearing aid is best for your hearing loss and what will help you hear better. Always ask your audiologist about the different connectivity options.
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For instance, the Bernafon Viron, Zerena and Leox are great hearing aids, which are compatible with iPhone and Apple devices, but if you have an Android phone you can still benefit from great features. Bernafon's EasyControl-A app is compatible with devices powered by:
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You can access great hearing aid control with this app, even if you have an Android phone. Regulate the volume, change your listening program, find your hearing aids and check your battery life with this useful app
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Do not spend hundreds of pounds without getting a second opinion from us.
When we refer to a product as 'New', we mean that the product is new to 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.