Head of Online Medical Content
Audiology Expert at Hearing Aid UK

Last Hearing Aid UK Update: 11/06/2026
If you want to stream phone calls, music, and TV audio directly to your hearing aids without headphones or extra kit, Bluetooth hearing aids can do exactly that.
Most modern hearing aids from the leading brands now include Bluetooth as standard, and for many people, it genuinely changes the way they use their hearing aids day to day.
The question is not really "what is Bluetooth?" It is whether the features are worth paying for, given how you actually live. If you regularly use your phone, watch television, or take video calls, the answer is usually yes.
If you mainly need clearer hearing for face-to-face conversation and rarely stream audio, a non-Bluetooth model might suit you just as well at a lower price.
Our HCPC-registered audiologists can help you work out which applies to you, at a free hearing test in one of our 93+ clinics or during a free home visit.

If you rarely use smartphones, don't stream media, and primarily need amplification for face-to-face conversations, you might not need to pay extra for Bluetooth hearing aid technology.
One of our audiologists can help you decide whether Bluetooth features justify the investment for your specific situation, at a free hearing test with no obligation to buy anything.

These are some of the main advantages of using Bluetooth hearing aids, including improved sound quality, convenience, and enhanced user experience.
You can stream TV audio directly to your hearing aids via Bluetooth.
Enjoy stress-free phone calls with direct audio streamed to your hearing aids with Bluetooth.
Stream your favourite music directly to your hearing aids without the need for headphones.
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.
Bluetooth technology has its roots in research begun by Ericsson in the early 1990s.
The Bluetooth Special Interest Group (SIG), the body that governs the standard, was formally established in 1998, with the goal of creating a universal wireless connection between devices.
Today, over 33,000 companies are members of the SIG, and Bluetooth is built into virtually every smartphone, tablet, and laptop sold worldwide.

Hearing aids with Bluetooth connectivity enhance your everyday life and keep you connected to both iOS and Android phones, as well as other wireless devices.
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 wearers in regard to accessing audio devices like mobile phones. You can imagine this was quite frustrating.
For example, if they wanted to jog and listen to music at the same time, they would have to remove their hearing aids and switch to headphones.
Bluetooth hearing aids have come a long way, and modern hearing aids are so much better, accommodating both connections to audio devices and streaming sound straight to your hearing aids.

Here, we explore the various features of Bluetooth hearing aids, such as connectivity options, streaming capabilities, and compatibility with different devices. Hopefully, this section should answer the question: "Do I really need Bluetooth hearing aid technology?"
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 while 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.
Not sure where to start? A free home visit from one of our audiologists is a low-pressure way to talk through your options. There is no obligation to buy anything, and the hearing test itself is free.
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 already have 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.
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.
What are Bluetooth hearing aid streamers? Streamers are effectively the 'go-between' between your hearing aids and your electronic device.
Here's what Bluetooth hearing aids actually mean for your everyday experiences:
Your phone rings whilst you're packing shopping, answer it with a tap on your hearing aid rather than fumbling for your mobile.
Stream your grandchildren's voices directly into both hearing aids with crystal-clear quality, without asking them to repeat themselves.
Listen to your favourite podcast whilst remaining aware of traffic and cyclists approaching from behind.
Follow along with a recipe video streaming to your Bluetooth hearing aids whilst keeping your hands free for chopping and stirring.
Connect to venues with Auracast technology (coming soon) to hear films at your preferred volume without disturbing others.
Navigate using GPS directions streamed directly to your Bluetooth hearing aids without missing crucial turning instructions. These aren't just nice-to-have features; they're genuine quality-of-life improvements that help you stay connected and independent.

Made for any Phone Bluetooth hearing aids offer universal compatibility with any Bluetooth-enabled smartphone or device, without needing a separate streamer.
This includes both iPhones and Android devices, as well as laptops, tablets, and other Bluetooth-enabled electronics. Within the UK, this capability is available across the Phonak and Unitron ranges.
Offering you the flexibility of having connectivity to any smartphone or mobile phone, whether it's an iPhone or an Android, with Bluetooth capabilities.
This is for audio and call streaming (and pretty much any electronic device with Bluetooth).
MFA hearing aids offer advanced sound processing, improved speech clarity, noise reduction, adaptive features, and enhanced comfort.
Providing users with a customised hearing experience for better overall listening in various environments.
Bluetooth hearing aids for iPhones are also acknowledged as both MFI and Made for iPhone hearing aids, which basically means a technology that can be paired with iPhones, iPads, and iPods.
It is an Apple-specific licensed product that 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 an iPhone.
This means you are able to take full advantage of the direct Bluetooth hearing aids streaming capabilities.
They enhance sound quality, offer seamless connectivity, allow personalised settings, support phone calls and media streaming, improve communication, and provide convenience through app controls for better hearing experiences.

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 those 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 people with hearing loss.
The company launched an app called Sound Amplifier, turning your Android smartphone into a hearing aid.
They provide seamless connectivity, direct streaming of calls and media, customisable sound settings, enhanced speech clarity, noise reduction, and easy control through compatible apps for a tailored listening experience.

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 work led to the first-ever Made for iPhone hearing aids with a direct connection, allowing wearers to access the world through their hearing aids using mobile phone features and apps.
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 to 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.
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.
Most people have heard of Bluetooth, but there's another clever bit of technology quietly built into many hearing aids called a telecoil, or T-coil for short. It's a tiny copper coil that picks up magnetic signals from compatible phones, hearing loops, and the kind of public sound systems you'll find in places like theatres, churches, and train stations.
Where Bluetooth keeps you connected to your own devices at home or out and about, the T-coil comes into its own when you're in a public space fitted with a loop system — cutting through the background noise so you can hear what's actually being said.
Together, the two technologies complement each other rather than compete: Bluetooth is ideal for streaming from your personal devices at home or on the go, while the T-coil kicks in when you're out in public spaces equipped with a loop system, cutting out background noise and delivering sound directly and clearly.
Many modern hearing aids include both, meaning you get the best of both worlds without needing to think too much about which one is doing the work.
However, you might occasionally encounter these situations:
Your audiologist can troubleshoot these issues during follow-up appointments, and most modern Bluetooth hearing aids include detailed pairing instructions in their accompanying apps.
Wherever you live, we have between 2 and 3 audiologists in your area who can support your hearing healthcare locally. You can book an appointment to see them in one of our clinics or in the comfort of your own home, at a time that suits 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.
These, in the past, still needed an additional streamer, but since Android 10, the future of direct connection has become brighter.
These now 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 iPhones, 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, you can also purchase one directly from them.
These are not directly connected 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, means Bluetooth hearing aids are now widely available.
They have become rather mainstream and, therefore, result in many Bluetooth hearing aid prices being no more expensive than those that don't have this technology.
Bluetooth hearing aids are now available across all technology levels. Prices start from around £795 per aid for entry-level models, rising to £1,995 per aid for the most advanced options.
All prices include your hearing test, fitting, and aftercare for life. In most cases, our prices are around 40% less than the high street. You might have visited a high street hearing aid retailer and been quoted a high price for hearing aids.
We recommend you compare our prices, which are published for all to see. We are Which? recommended and trusted by over 31,000 customers across the UK.

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 the top four benefits, as highlighted by our audiologists.
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, as you would with 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 the 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:

Finding the right Bluetooth hearing aids 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.
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 recommendations are based on brand reputation, verified customer reviews, and the clinical experience of our HCPC-registered audiologists. All three hearing aids below are fitted and fine-tuned in person by a qualified audiologist, either at one of our 93+ clinics or during a free home visit.

The Phonak Audeo Infinio Ultra Sphere i90 hearing aids are an advanced solution for those seeking seamless connectivity and great sound quality. These devices leverage advanced Bluetooth technology to directly stream audio from smartphones, tablets, and TVs.
This means you can enjoy crystal-clear phone calls, immersive music, and clear TV dialogue, all without the need for additional accessories.
Phonak has also long been known for its robust connectivity, offering classic Bluetooth to pair with a variety of devices like smartphones, tablets, and computers. Their unique dual streaming capability allows you to connect to two devices simultaneously, a feature unmatched by other hearing aid brands.
The Infinio Ultra Sphere i90 takes connectivity to the next level. Hands-free calling is now supported, and the transmission power has been significantly improved, ensuring a more stable connection over longer distances.
This enhanced connectivity translates to superior audio quality and smoother transitions between different audio sources.
With LE Audio, Phonak's hearing aids are Auracast-ready. Auracast activation is pending a firmware update from your audiologist and is expected to be available at no extra cost when the broadcast standard is rolled out in compatible venues.

A small, discreet rechargeable custom In-Ear offering with the innovative IX platform technology. This premium 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 to your devices. You can also enjoy the benefits of connecting to the Signia app and Signia Assistant for further personalisation.
The Signia Insio 7IX incorporates the successful Integrated Xperience platform, giving you 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 from an In-Ear aid.
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 Solaris 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 sound brings to life.
When it comes to connectivity, Intent ticks all the boxes. Oticon has confirmed that the Intent supports the new Bluetooth protocol, LE Audio, and Auracast, which is available via firmware update and will effectively represent the new generation of reliable audio streaming.
In fact, Oticon Intent 1 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 Intent 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. Neither approach is better: it depends on your lifestyle and listening preferences.

Choose the Phonak Infinio Ultra Sphere i90 if you want the most reliable multi-device connectivity and regularly find yourself moving between your phone, laptop, and TV. The dual streaming and improved transmission power are a genuine practical advantage for people with busy, connected lifestyles.
Choose the Signia Insio 7IX if discretion is your priority and you have mild to moderate hearing loss. The custom in-ear fit makes it one of the most discreet Bluetooth options on the market, and the Bluetooth performance is strong across both iPhone and Android.
Choose the Oticon Intent 1 if you want the most natural sound processing. Its 360-degree approach suits people who find heavy speech-focus processing sounds unnatural, and the Auracast readiness makes it a future-proof choice.
As always, your audiologist will make the final recommendation after your hearing test. These picks are a starting point, not a prescription.
"Bluetooth is one of the most asked-about features we hear about from people considering private hearing aids for the first time. The honest answer is that it makes a real difference to some people's daily lives and very little difference to others. The key is working out which camp you're in before you pay for the technology. That is exactly what a hearing test and a proper conversation with your audiologist is for."
Paul Harrison, Audiology, Hearing Aid UK
Auracast Bluetooth technology will be integrated into hearing aids, revolutionising auditory assistance. With its advanced connectivity, Auracast enables direct streaming of phone calls, music, and other audio content from smartphones and compatible devices.
This innovation enhances the hearing aid user experience, providing crystal-clear sound quality and eliminating background noise.
Auracast's low-energy consumption also helps to prolong battery life, ensuring extended usage without interruption. Its user-friendly interface simplifies device pairing and customisation, supporting hearing personalisation.
Auracast Bluetooth technology will roll out within the next six or so years in hearing aids, representing a significant leap forward, offering enhanced accessibility and improved quality of life for those with hearing loss. Your audiologist can advise whether your chosen hearing aids are Auracast-ready and how to activate the feature when it becomes available in your area.
Bluetooth hearing aids do more than just help you hear; they keep you connected to the world around you. By linking wirelessly to your smartphone, TV, and other everyday devices, they let you stream audio, answer calls, and quietly adjust your settings without anyone noticing.
There are a few different types to know about: Made for iPhone, Made for Android, and Made for Any Phone. Some older models need a small extra device called a streamer to get the most out of the connection, but many of today's hearing aids connect directly and even support hands-free calling straight out of the box.
If you regularly use your phone, enjoy watching TV, or like to listen to music on the go, Bluetooth hearing aids can genuinely make those everyday moments easier and more enjoyable. Prices start from around £795 per aid, and brands like Phonak, Signia, and Oticon consistently top the list when it comes to performance and reliability.
That said, Bluetooth isn't for everyone, and that's completely fine. If you're not particularly tech-driven and mostly just need clearer hearing day-to-day, you may not need to pay extra for features you won't use. It's always worth having a conversation with your audiologist to work out what's actually right for you.
✔️ What Bluetooth hearing aids actually are: Digital hearing aids that connect wirelessly to your smartphone, TV, laptop, and other devices so you can stream audio directly without headphones.
✔️ Worth it if: You regularly make phone calls, stream media, watch TV, or attend video calls. Bluetooth gives you hands-free convenience and discreet volume control through your phone.
✔️ Not essential if: You mainly need clearer hearing for face-to-face conversation and rarely use streaming devices. A well-fitted non-Bluetooth model may serve you better at a lower cost.
✔️ Three types to know about: Made for iPhone (MFI), Made for Android, and Made for Any Phone (MFA). Some older models need a separate streamer; most modern aids connect directly.
✔️ Prices from around £795 per aid, with leading models from Phonak, Signia, and Oticon up to £1,995 per aid. All prices include your hearing test, fitting, and aftercare for life.
✔️ The fitting matters as much as the technology. Any hearing aid, Bluetooth or otherwise, should be fitted and fine-tuned by an HCPC-registered audiologist. Book a free appointment to find out which model is right for you.
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.
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 the 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.
Not only are the prices great, but the service is fantastic! Many thanks to your team.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 Adapter 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.
Bluetooth hearing aids from the leading manufacturers are available through qualified audiologists rather than through online retail.
A hearing test comes first, so your audiologist can confirm the type and degree of hearing loss and recommend the right model for your needs.
You can book a free hearing test and consultation either at one of our 93+ clinics across the UK or during a free home visit. Call us on 0800 567 7621 or book a free appointment online.
Are Bluetooth hearing aids bad for you? Bluetooth hearing aids are considered safe for use by regulatory agencies. Bluetooth technology uses low levels of radio frequency (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. For NHS information on hearing loss, causes, and when to seek help, visit NHS.uk.
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.