Bluetooth Hearing Aids

Advantages of using Bluetooth for hearing aid wearers

Bluetooth within hearing aids essentially means that your hearing Bluetooth technology has been around for some time in the likes of speakers and headphone. Essentially when coupled together across high-frequency radio channels Bluetooth devices communicate with each other to transfer information. Historically, this function may have relied on relatively large sized batteries (not possible for hearing aids where often the battery is small to fit with desired cosmetic requirements of a hearing aid) but the roll out of Bluetooth 4.0 which consumes less battery meant to the extension of Bluetooth to the hearing aid technology world. Connectivity comes in multiple forms but the overall consensus is that the technology offers great advantages for audio sound quality for hearing aid wearers.

Other Advantages of Bluetooth Hearing aids connect to Apple iphone, Android, laptops or PCs

Bluetooth functionality in your hearing aids enables to you to connect and listen to a whole host of devices such as your phone, mobile, TV and tablet. When paired with manufacturers designed Bluetooth accessories such as TV streamers, remote microphones and table mics the hearing devices’ ability to hear over distance or background noise is boosted, offering extra benefit to wearers when in more complicated listening environments.

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Types of Bluetooth hearing aids

Wireless vs non-wireless

In the private hearing aid world the word “wireless” is responsible for features which allow the hearing aids to communicate together or to hearing aid computer programming devices. It allows for binaural (both ears) features in the aid such as volume control adjustments made to one side but affecting both sides and noise reduction that uses information provide from both aids. This is not to be confused with Bluetooth compatible which talks about the ability for the hearing aid to be control by a user’s device connected via Bluetooth such as a remote, phone or tablet.

Direct vs Indirect

Direct audio streaming is only possible with Bluetooth compatible hearing aids. Prior to the release of directly compatible aids Bluetooth audio required an additional streamer to act as an intermediate device which sends the audio to your hearing aids. These streamers, sold as accessories, were commonly worn around the neck of the hearing aid wearer and often doubled up as remote controls. More recent advancements have cut out the need for the intermediate streamer, allowing the hearing aids themselves to connect directly to the device you want to hear the sound from.

Made for iPhone vs made for All

The very first generations of directly compatible devices where produced for Apple iphone and many of the manufacturers current aids still only offer this functionality. The can stream your mobile telephone calls without the need for an additional streamer. Later some manufacturers have released products which are compatible with both Apple and Android telephones, another few manufacturers then going on to design aids that are compatible with any Bluetooth enabled device such as laptops.

Are Bluetooth hearing aids easy to use? The answer is yes!

Lots of wearers, existing or new, express reservations in our clinics about Bluetooth devices being too complicated to handle. In most cases this isn’t the case. The technology has been designed to make life easier not harder and once shown how to use by your audiologist or hearing specialist, is simple enough for even the most advanced technophobe. Bluetooth use is never compulsory but it does often present a wow factor and we would urge most new users to discuss auditability with their hearing professional.

NHS hearing aids and Bluetooth

The gap between NHS hearing aids and private hearing aids is not as large as is had been previously. A common misconception when being told that the NHS are switching to offer “wireless technology” that this means Bluetooth compatible. Bluetooth streaming hearing aids are still only available on the private market.

How much do Bluetooth hearing aids cost?

Our Bluetooth hearing aids start at £995 per aid. Want to find out more about our Bluetooth hearing aids? Contact us. Why not also learn about our rechargeable hearing aids or our find out more about choosing your hearing aids.

Our Range of Hearing Aids

Find out more about the products we offer below.

Invisible in the Canal (IIC)

Extremely discreet. This is the smallest type of hearing aid, fitting deep within the ear canal making it almost invisible when worn. Suitable for mild to moderate hearing loss.

Completely in the Canal (CIC)

The CIC is the second smallest hearing aid which fits completely in the ear canal and dependent on the size and shape of your ear canal is also very discreet. Suitable for mild to moderate hearing loss).

Receiver in the Canal (RIC)

The most common style of hearing aid. Very comfortable, extremely discreet yet powerful. Virtually invisible this type of hearing aid sits neatly behind the ear. This device fits a wide range of hearing loss, designed to provide natural sound quality.

In the Canal (ITC)

Bespoke and discreet, slightly larger for increased ease of handling, power and battery life. This type of hearing aid sits in the outer portion of the ear canal and is smaller than the ITE style. It can fit a wide range of hearing loss.

In the Ear (ITE)

Fits comfortably in the outer ear. Great for people with dexterity issues. This hearing aid fits comfortably inside the bowl of the ear. Due to its size, it’s great for people with dexterity problems or needing more power. It fits a wide range of hearing loss.

Behind the Ear (BTE)

A more traditional style, fitting comfortably behind the ear and attaching to a custom-made ear mould. With this type of hearing aid, all of the components sit within a casing behind the ear. Suitable for people with mild to profound hearing loss.

Bluetooth

Bluetooth functionality in your hearing aids enables to you to connect and listen to a whole host of devices such as your phone, mobile, TV and tablet. Connectivity comes in multiple forms but the overall consensus is that the technology offers great advantages for audio sound quality for hearing aid wearers.

Rechargeable Hearing Aids

Rechargeable hearing aids have stormed the market since their release and for good reason. They are great option for those looking for more convenience and to reduce their hearing aid maintenance, particularly where limited dexterity or the frequency of battery changing is a concern.

Our Services

We offer all aspects of hearing care in Stockport & Manchester. Whether it be wax removal, hearing protection, music devices, hearing tests or tinnitus rehabilitation, we can help. Please click on one of the following services for more information.

Hearing Tests

Hearing Assessments

Ear Wax Removal

Tinnitus Management

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For more information about our services or even for just a general chat regarding your hearing health, please do get in touch.

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Private Hearing Aids

Hear well and stay integrated with a choice of the latest hearing aids from the best manufacturer’s brands like Phonak, Unitron, Widex, Signia, Starkey or Oticon. Our honest, unbiased and comprehensive advice helps you understand your best hearing aid features and styles. We offer a 14-day FREE trial, moneyback guarantee and fully inclusive aftercare package on all our devices to prove our dedication to your satisfaction.

Hearing Aids

Invisible, rechargeable or Bluetooth, find the best digital hearing aid technology to suit you.

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