Hearing Aid Compatibility and Cell Phones

One of the topics we're asked about most frequently is the best way to find a cell phone or wireless device for a hard of hearing individual. We've compiled some useful tips here to help make the search a little easier.

If you wear hearing aids and you've tried to use a cell phone, then you know how annoying it can be. Feedback, static... it can be impossible to hear a conversation. But you may not know that many new cell phones on the market today have been designed to work better with hearing aids. All major cell phone manufacturers are required by the FCC to offer hearing aid compatible cell phones, so the selection is expanding all the time.

In order to find the best phone for you and your hearing aid, it is best to visit a store and try out as many phones as possible. Different phones will work better with different hearing aids.

Another important thing to look for is an M3 or M4 rating. Phones with an M-rating have been designated as hearing aid compatible. The M-rating refers to the microphone mode of your hearing aid. It designates phones with RF emission levels that are less likely to interfere with a digital hearing aid.

In September of 2006, you'll begin seeing phones with a "T" on the label. The "T" designates phones that are able to be coupled with hearing aids in the telecoil mode. The higher the "T" number, the more likely it is that you will be able to use a phone with your hearing aid in the telecoil mode.

If you are still having a hard time finding a cell phone that works well for you, there are a variety of items that can be added to a traditional phone. If you use a hearing aid with a telecoil, a HATIS headset or an amplified neckloop might be helpful. If you need a cell phone to be just a little louder, a cell phone amplifier might be just the boost you need, or try the ELI for sophisticated, hands free communication using Bluetooth technology.

Many new hearing aids are designed to be usable with cell phones and wireless devices. with lower RF emissions. Of the more than 2 million hearing aids sold in 2004, over 80% had the basic circuitry design that increases immunity to interference.

If you still have questions about hearing aid compatibility and cell phones, please email us for more information.