Auracast Broadcast Audio is the latest Bluetooth™ capability that allows hearing aid users to stream sound in public places directly into their hearing aids. Auracast allows audio to be broadcast via Bluetooth and accessed by a variety of compatible devices, including hearing aids, smartphones, headphones and more.
The last several hearing aids released by Oticon and other major manufacturers have all been either Auracast ready or Auracast compatible because this technology makes hearing in public places like theaters, airports, gyms, classrooms - and many more venues - easier than ever for hearing aid wearers.
How does Auracast work?
Auracast transmitters can be set up nearly anywhere. In conference rooms or theaters, they can be connected to the public address system. In restaurants, airports or gyms, the transmitter is usually connected to an individual device, like a TV. In both cases, the sound from the transmitter is then broadcast using Bluetooth LE Audio.
If you’re in range of the broadcast, you can find the audio stream on your smartphone to connect your hearing aids or headphones to listen to the broadcast.
What makes Auracast new?
Hearing aid and cochlear implant users may be familiar with telecoils, which originally helped with hearing the telephone and evolved to help users hear in public places like churches and theaters – Auracast works differently but offers similar accessibility. Unlike hearing loops, Auracast does not require wiring an entire room, instead it utilizes a transmitter. This makes it easier to install in existing spaces.
Another unique thing about Auracast is that it allows broadcasting to multiple recipients. Bluetooth in the past only allowed for a one-to-one connection between a broadcasting device like a smartphone and a receiving device, like headphones. Auracast transmits to dozens of receivers.
Finally, Auracast can be accessed by any Bluetooth-enabled device, not just hearing aids or venue-owned headsets. This means that hearing aid users can benefit, but so can anyone with earbuds and a smartphone. We’re excited about this extra accessibility
What are some of the places Auracast is expected to be?
We expect that in the years to come, Auracast will be used in many ways, such as:
- Theaters – for live performances and in movie theaters
- Conference rooms, classrooms and meeting rooms – to hear speakers and announcements
- Airports – to hear gate announcements
- Gyms and restaurants – to hear televisions
- Churches – to hear speakers from anywhere in the congregation (or even from a nearby childcare room)
- Tour systems – to hear tour guides
Auracast is a new technology, so it will take time to find widely, but you can keep an eye out for signs indicating that it is available. You may also find telecoil signage in many of these types of venues, which you can learn more about here.
HearingLife has the latest technology that is Auracast-ready! Schedule a free hearing test with your local office and our experts will fill you in on our newest hearing aids.