Hearing Aids with Bluetooth: Do They Have Auracast

Hearing aids with Bluetooth have already reshaped the way people with hearing loss stay connected. They let wearers stream calls, music, and TV directly into their ears. But the question people now ask is, do hearing aids with Bluetooth also have Auracast?

Auracast is the latest development from the Bluetooth Special Interest Group, and it is designed to transform how audio is shared in both private and public spaces. For people with hearing aids, this innovation may soon make it easier to hear in airports, theaters, classrooms, and even waiting rooms.

This article explores Auracast in depth. You’ll learn how it works, which hearing aids support it, and why it may redefine accessibility for millions of listeners.

What Is Auracast and Why It Matters for Hearing Aids

Auracast is a new type of wireless broadcasting technology built on Bluetooth LE Audio. Instead of one-to-one connections like traditional Bluetooth, Auracast enables one-to-many transmissions. This means a single source, such as a TV or microphone, can send audio to unlimited receivers, including hearing aids, earbuds, or headphones.

For people with hearing loss, this represents a major breakthrough. Imagine walking into a busy airport where you can barely hear announcements. With Auracast, you could tune directly into the broadcast using your hearing aids. It’s like connecting to Wi-Fi, but for sound.

This shift is so significant that the Bluetooth group describes Auracast as the future of shared audio experiences. For hearing aid wearers, it brings a level of clarity, universality, and convenience never seen before.

A smartphone outline points to hearing aids, headphones and Airpods.

How Auracast Works in Hearing Aids

Auracast relies on transmitters and receivers. The transmitter could be a smartphone, a concert sound system, or a television. Hearing aids act as receivers, tuning into the broadcast signal.

The process is designed to be simple:

  • An Auracast transmitter begins sending a broadcast.

  • Your phone or hearing aid app scans for available broadcasts.

  • You select the one you want to join.

  • The audio streams directly to your hearing aids.

Because the connection is digital and low-energy, the audio is clearer and the battery impact is minimal. In practice, it feels as effortless as joining a Wi-Fi network or scanning a QR code.

Auracast vs. Traditional Bluetooth Streaming

Traditional Bluetooth in hearing aids connects you directly to a phone, tablet, or TV. This system has worked well, especially through Made for iPhone (MFi) and Android’s ASHA protocol. But it comes with limits.

  • One-to-one only. You can stream to your hearing aids, but nobody else can join.

  • Range restricted. Most connections cut out beyond 30 feet.

  • Battery drain. Older Bluetooth streaming can reduce daily hearing aid use time.

Auracast changes the game. With it, one broadcast can reach multiple listeners simultaneously. The range extends to around 300 feet. And because it uses Bluetooth LE Audio, it consumes less battery power while delivering higher-quality sound.

Auracast vs. Telecoil

For decades, telecoil has been the standard for hearing aid connectivity in public spaces. Churches, theaters, and auditoriums often use loop systems that transmit audio to telecoil-equipped hearing aids.

While telecoil is reliable, it has drawbacks. Loop systems are expensive to install, not available everywhere, and sometimes provide inconsistent sound quality.

Auracast offers a modern alternative. Instead of specialized wiring, it broadcasts wirelessly using Bluetooth LE Audio. Venues only need an Auracast transmitter, which makes installation easier and more affordable. For hearing aid wearers, the sound is clearer, and access is universal.

Telecoil will not vanish overnight, but Auracast is poised to become the new global standard.

A man walks through an airport.

Real-World Examples of Auracast in Action

To understand the impact, consider these scenarios:

  • Airports. Hear boarding announcements directly in your hearing aids without straining through noise.

  • Waiting rooms. Tune into muted TVs and follow programs with perfect clarity.

  • Theaters. Stream live performances straight to your ears.

  • Classrooms. Students can connect to lectures without extra equipment.

  • Tours. Guides can broadcast to groups, and participants can join instantly by scanning a QR code.

These examples highlight how Auracast may replace frustration with effortless listening.

Which Hearing Aids Have Auracast Now

Auracast is just beginning to appear in consumer hearing aids. Here’s where things stand:

  • ReSound. The ReSound Nexia is the first fully Auracast-enabled hearing aid on the market. Other ReSound hearing aids like Vivia and Savi are also built on Bluetooth LE Audio and are ready for the future.

  • Phonak. The Phonak Audeo Sphere Infinio line uses Bluetooth 5.3, making it Auracast-ready. Future firmware updates will unlock full capability.

  • Starkey. Starkey hearing aids such as Edge AI already use Bluetooth LE Audio. Firmware updates will allow them to connect to Auracast broadcasts.

  • Signia. The Pure Charge&Go IX is Auracast-ready, pending updates.

  • Unitron. Newer models like Reach are considered future-proof and will support Auracast soon.

If you’re choosing new hearing aids today, Auracast-ready devices ensure you’ll be prepared as venues adopt the technology.

How to Tell If Your Hearing Aids Are Auracast-Ready

You may wonder if your current hearing aids will support Auracast. Here’s how to check:

  • Look for Bluetooth LE Audio or Bluetooth version 5.2/5.3 in the specifications.

  • Check your manufacturer’s app for Auracast mentions or updates.

  • Ask your provider directly. Many Auracast-ready devices need only a firmware update.

If you’re unsure, your provider can confirm. For help finding professional guidance, see finding the best audiologist near me.

The Benefits of Auracast for Hearing Aid Users

Auracast is more than a technical upgrade. It promises life-changing improvements for hearing aid users.

  • Universal access. No more struggling with poor loudspeaker systems. Join broadcasts anywhere.

  • Battery efficiency. Low-energy streaming preserves daily hearing aid use.

  • Private sharing. Share audio with friends and family without passing around earbuds.

  • Clarity in public places. Hear announcements, music, and voices without background noise.

  • Flexibility. Switch between multiple broadcasts, languages, or content streams.

This technology aims to make hearing aids more than just amplifiers. They become your gateway to sound in every environment.

What to Consider When Choosing Future-Ready Hearing Aids

Auracast should not be your only consideration. When investing in hearing aids, look for a balance of features that enhance daily life.

Future-ready hearing aids not only prepare you for Auracast but also improve your quality of life today.

People watch an outdoor movie screen.

Looking Ahead: The Future of Shared Audio

Auracast is expected to expand steadily over the next five to seven years. Adoption in public venues should accelerate, with airports, theaters, and universities leading the way.

As this infrastructure grows, hearing aids with Auracast will offer more inclusive, seamless listening. The technology may eventually replace Telecoil and redefine how people interact with sound in public spaces.

Ready to Experience the Future of Hearing?

Bluetooth has already made hearing aids smarter, but Auracast will make them more universal. If you want to prepare for tomorrow’s listening experiences, choosing Auracast-ready devices is a smart step.

Stanford Hearing can help you compare Phonak Sphere Infinio, Starkey Edge AI, and ReSound Vivia to find your perfect match.

👉 Contact Stanford Hearing today to schedule your consultation and get future-ready hearing aids.