48 Million Americans Affected by Hearing Loss: FCC Mandates Smartphone Compatibility with Hearing Aids
A recent press release from the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) revealed that 48 million people in the United States are dealing with some level of hearing loss.
In response to this staggering number, the FCC has announced a new mandate requiring all new smartphones to be compatible with hearing aids. This rule will come into effect after a specified “grace period,” as outlined in the announcement (PDF).
For many users, this mandate is a significant step forward. While iPhones and most Android devices currently offer some level of compatibility with wireless hearing aids, the standards are not uniform, and some devices do not meet the ideal M4 and T4 ratings. It can be challenging for consumers to determine the level of compatibility of a phone before making a purchase. The FCC aims to address this issue by implementing stricter labeling requirements for both physical retailers and online stores.
The accessibility of hearing aids in the US has increased since the Food and Drug Administration approved the sale of over-the-counter (OTC) hearing aids in 2022. This decision has made purchasing hearing aids easier and more affordable, prompting several companies like Sony, Jabra, and Sennheiser to enter the market. Consumers can now find wireless hearing aids at retailers like Best Buy.
Additional guidelines in the FCC’s order include setting benchmarks for distortion-free volume control and establishing universal Bluetooth pairing standards for both standard and OTC hearing aids.
As someone who may require hearing assistance in the future, I personally appreciate these advancements in technology and accessibility.
