US FCC mandates hearing aid compatibility for mobile phones
By broadening the range of mobile technologies accessible to this demographic, the FCC’s ruling seeks to foster inclusivity and equal access to technology advancements.
The Federal Communications Commission (FCC) has enacted new regulations requiring all mobile phones sold in the US to be compatible with hearing aids, significantly enhancing accessibility for individuals with hearing loss. Specifically, these rules mandate that manufacturers adopt standard Bluetooth coupling for universal connectivity, thereby eliminating proprietary standards.
In addition, mobile handsets must meet specific volume benchmarks to ensure that sound quality is maintained when the volume is increased. Furthermore, to inform consumers, handset manufacturers must clearly label their devices to indicate compliance with these new hearing aid compatibility standards.
Notably, these changes stem from years of study and advocacy by the Hearing Aid Compatibility (HAC) Task Force, which provided recommendations to the FCC. As a result, the FCC’s regulations aim to provide greater choice and improved functionality for the 48 million Americans with hearing loss, ensuring they can access a wider range of mobile technologies and features.