The technological revolution in hearing aids and devices is continuing with the launch of a new Bluetooth capability that will revolutionise how people with – and without – hearing impairments experience public spaces. Auracast broadcast audio, developed by the Bluetooth Special Interest Group (BT SIG) with the support of the European Hearing Instrument Manufacturers Association (EHIMA), enables an audio transmitter to broadcast audio to an unlimited number of receivers.
Technology advances bringing people together
This represents a huge step forward as, until now, Bluetooth connectivity was limited to just one transmitter and one receiver. This meant that those with hearing loss could not always hear the audio from speakers or systems in public spaces such as train stations airports or tourist attractions. The Auracast transmitter, however, can be received by an unlimited number of devices within its range, allowing those with and without hearing impairments to receive audio content – in digital stereo quality – directly through their Bluetooth-enabled hearing systems or headphones.
The widespread availability of such technology not only sets a new standard for accessible listening but will also improve inclusion for those with hearing loss. Auracast will transform how they experience busy, loud or crowded public spaces like train stations, airports, museums and tourist attractions, churches, conference halls, or cinemas.
A new age of inclusivity for those with hearing loss
While those with hearing loss may have previously avoided these large public spaces or venues, with Auracast, everyone in a conference or concert hall will now be able to receive audio content directly in their hearing aids or headphones. With Auracast, travellers at busy transport hubs will be able to listen to important announcements without attempting to rely on often hard-to-understand loudspeaker announcements at the gate or platform. Gym users are empowered to enjoy workout instructions or music, regardless of the surrounding noise through the transmitter. In schools or universities, the content of lectures can be sent directly to students’ hearing systems making their learning experience easier, more inclusive and more enjoyable.
The enhanced inclusivity Auracast brings is not limited to social events or public spaces either. The technology can also make a significant difference at home, as two hearing-impaired people will now be able to sit together in front of the TV and listen to the same sound as the TV streams to both hearing aids in parallel with Auracast.
How is this made possible?
Auracast overcomes the limitations of conventional transmission technologies such as induction loops or infrared transmission by using Bluetooth Low Energy (LE) Audio and utilising LC3 codec, which ensures higher audio quality with lower energy consumption. A particular advantage of this tech is the easy installation of Auracast streamers, so it is equally suited for both permanent and temporary use.
What is the far-reaching impact of Auracast?
The technology now exists for a more inclusive world for people with hearing loss – the next challenge is bringing it to them. The majority of those impacted by hearing loss are simply not aware of the scale of the advantages offered by modern hearing aid care and EHIMA wishes to close this gap. For example, a 2022 study found that 59 percent of hearing aid wearers surveyed in Germany regretted not having opted for a hearing aid sooner in retrospect.
Auracast offers a fantastic opportunity to reach those who have not benefited from new advances in hearing aid technology and experience a level of hearing intervention that is truly transformative.
