Hearing assistance devices have come a long way in improving the quality of life for those experiencing hearing loss. Modern technology has enabled these devices to not only amplify sound but also connect seamlessly to other devices for a more immersive and connected experience. One of the key technologies driving this innovation is Bluetooth^® Low Energy Audio (LE Audio). In this blog post, we will delve into the significance of Bluetooth LE Audio in hearing assistance devices, particularly in the context of Assistive Listening Systems (ALS), explaining how it enables energy-efficient communication and providing real-world examples of Bluetooth LE Audio in action.

Understanding Bluetooth® Low Energy Audio (LE Audio)

Bluetooth® Low Energy Audio, often referred to as Bluetooth LE Audio or simply LE Audio, is a wireless communication technology designed for low-power, short-range applications. Unlike classic Bluetooth, which is known for higher power consumption and data throughput, LE Audio excels in providing reliable communication while conserving energy. This makes it an ideal choice for hearing assistance devices, where battery life is a critical factor.

Energy-Efficient

One of the primary challenges in hearing assistance devices is maintaining a long-lasting battery life while providing a seamless listening experience. Bluetooth LE Audio addresses this challenge exceptionally well. Its low power consumption allows hearing aids and other assistive listening devices to operate for extended periods on a single battery charge while benefiting from Bluetooth connectivity. This means users can wear their hearing aids throughout the day without constantly worrying about recharging or replacing batteries.

Real-World Examples of Bluetooth® LE Audio in ALS Applications

Let’s explore some real-world examples of how LE Audio is going to revolutionize the field of Assistive Listening Systems:

1. Bluetooth Connectivity to Smartphones: Modern hearing aids and cochlear implants equipped with Bluetooth LE Audio technology will enable users to connect directly to smartphones. While many hearing aids already support Bluetooth connectivity for personalizing settings and streaming audio, it can be very battery intensive and requires a one-to-one pairing process to setup. The advent of LE Audio will simplify this and make it much more efficient. Auracast™ broadcast audio also enables new possibilities for audio sharing from a smartphone.

2. Seamless TV Streaming: Some ALS devices will use Bluetooth LE Audio to connect to a TV or other audio sources wirelessly, meaning users will enjoy TV shows, movies, or music without disturbing others and without cumbersome wires. In many cases this will utilize the new Auracast™ broadcast audio feature which means you will no longer need to pair directly to a specific TV to connect. This means much easier access and allows multiple people to benefit from the streamed audio simultaneously. The low energy consumption will ensure that users can enjoy extended viewing without worrying about frequent battery changes.

3. Wearable Assistive Listening Devices: Bluetooth LE enables the creation of compact and portable assistive listening devices that users can carry with them, providing on-the-go accessibility.

4. Public audio: Due to the one-to-one pairing mechanism needed for classic Bluetooth audio connections it has never been possible to deploy this as a way of providing audio in public environments. The Auracast™ specification changes this, unlocking the potential for unlimited users to benefit from broadcast audio directly to their own devices.

Bluetooth Low Energy Audio (LE Audio) is a game-changer in the world of hearing assistance devices, particularly in Assistive Listening applications. The new Auracast™ specification utilizes Bluetooth Low Energy Audio to broadcast audio to an unlimited number of participants. Auracast™ will facilitate energy-efficient communication while providing seamless connectivity directly to compatible hearing aids, wireless earphones and smartphones and will transform the way individuals with hearing impairment experience the world around them. As technology continues to advance, we can expect even more innovations that harness the power of Bluetooth LE Audio to enhance the quality of life for those in need of hearing assistance.

The Bluetooth^® word mark and logos are registered trademarks owned by Bluetooth SIG, Inc. The Auracast™ word mark and logos are trademarks owned by Bluetooth SIG, Inc. Any use of such marks by Listen Technologies Corporation is under license. Other trademarks and trade names are those of their respective owners.