Talking on a Cell Phone with Hearing Aids

A man syncs up his hearing aids to be able to hear his phone conversations
4 min read

Talking on a Cellphone with Hearing Aids

Thanks to ever-evolving technology, connecting with loved ones has never been more seamless for hearing aid users. Talking on a cellphone while wearing your hearing aid is now an empowering experience that effortlessly bridges communication. Imagine chatting with friends, streaming calls, or even watching videos without missing a single word.

The world of hearing aids is more than just amplified sound. Today, it's all about clarity and preserving connection. Nowadays, your hearing aids and cellphone can work as one to enhance your every conversation and deliver each message with crystal-clear precision. Let’s explore the incredible possibilities within reach for anyone ready to embrace this technology.

Positioning Your Phone with Traditional Hearing Aids

While the majority of hearing aids are now equipped with Bluetooth technology, your device may not have this capability. If this is your circumstance, the way you position your phone to your ear plays a big part in how well you hear the other end of the conversation.

There are many types of hearing aids, but we’ll simplify things. If your hearing aid sits behind your ear with either a thin wire or tube leading to a dome or ear mold inside your ear, you’ve got a behind-the-ear (BTE) or receiver-in-canal (RIC) device. For these, the microphones are located on the hearing aid's body behind your ear. To get the best sound, hold your phone slightly behind your ear at an angle to allow the microphones to pick up and amplify the sound. You may have to experiment a little to find the best position that produces the clearest sound.

If your hearing aid fits entirely into your ear canal, you have a custom or non-custom in-the-ear (ITE) or in-the-canal (ITC) device. With these, you can position the phone against your ear just like you would without hearing aids, as the microphones are located within your ear. This ensures you hear phone calls clearly without having to adjust your usual phone-holding position.

Additional Tips for Improving Phone Conversations

The way you position your phone is no doubt a huge contributor to keeping your conversations going smoothly, but if you’re still having trouble, here are some additional strategies to consider:
  • Use Assistive Devices – In addition to hearing aids, a variety of assistive listening devices are available. These include speech-to-text technology that can enhance phone conversations.
  • Put Your Phone on Speaker – A great way to minimize feedback and make conversations clearer is to use the speakerphone option. While you're sacrificing personal privacy, putting your phone on speaker often improves the clarity of the voice you hear.
  • Find a Quiet Environment – Try to take calls in a quiet area. This way, background noise is minimized, and your hearing aids can focus more on delivering crisp audio from the conversation.
  • Communicate Your Hearing Troubles Openly – Don't hesitate to let your conversation partner know about any hearing difficulties you face. Many people are happy to be patient or switch to text, email, or video calls.
  • Use Video Apps – Video calls like Facetime can provide visual cues, making it easier to understand conversations. Seeing facial expressions and lip movements can support better comprehension alongside your hearing aids.

Better Sound Streaming with Bluetooth

Bluetooth technology has redefined the way we communicate and interact with our devices. As one of the most popular features in modern hearing aids, Bluetooth capabilities allow for seamless connectivity between your cellphone and hearing aid. This means no more tangled wires or fumbling with additional devices to make a call or listen to music.

Thanks to advancements in Bluetooth technology, users can now enjoy extended battery life and a wider range of compatibility options. And with Apple’s “Made for iPhone” certification, even more hearing aid users can experience the convenience of direct streaming from their iPhones without any intermediary device.

Android users aren’t left behind either, as they can take advantage of the Audio Streaming for Hearing Aids (ASHA) protocol for direct streaming to select Android devices.

Two-Way Hands-Free Communication

Gone are the days of struggling to hold a phone and adjust your hearing aid at the same time. With two-way hands-free communication, you can now use your compatible iPhone or iPad as a speakerphone that streams directly into your hearing aids. This opens up a world of possibilities, including making and receiving calls, video chatting, and even using voice assistants like Siri without ever having to touch your phone.

Pairing is simple. You can do it at a hearing aid store or with the help of your audiologist or hearing aid specialist. Simply connect your devices once, and you’re ready to go!

Upgrade Your Line of Communication Today

It's time to transform the way you connect over the phone with your hearing aids. Discover the enhanced clarity and freedom of cellphone compatibility by visiting Elite Hearing Centers of America. Take advantage of our 30-day free trial for hearing aids designed to improve the way you connect with friends and family. With absolutely no cost or commitment, and your satisfaction completely guaranteed, there's every reason to try.

Our ear doctors and compassionate staff are here to help. Schedule your complimentary hearing test at an audiology clinic near you today. Enjoy the remarkable benefits firsthand – you’ll be glad you did!

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