Accessibility

What is a “hearing aid compatible (HAC) handset”?

These handsets have been tested and rated for use with hearing aids for some of the wireless technologies that they use. However, there may be some newer wireless technologies used in the phones that have not been tested yet for use with hearing aids. It is important to try the different features of these phones thoroughly and in different locations, using your hearing aid or cochlear implant, to determine if you hear any interfering noise. If you have further questions on hearing aid compatibility, about return or exchange policies, contact us at info@astac.net. 

M and T Hearing Aid Compatibility Ratings

Hearing aids do not always function well with wireless handsets. Hearing aids operate by using a microphone to pick up sound waves, converting the sound waves into electrical signals to be amplified. Distortion or amplification of unwanted sound (noise) often occurs. The FCC’s hearing and compatibility requirements address hearing aids that operate in either of two modes.

Acoustic coupling (“M” rating), hearing aids operating in acoustic coupling mode receive through a microphone and then amplify all sounds surrounding the user, including both desired sounds, such as a telephone’s audio signal, and unwanted ambient noise. Hearing aids operating

Inductive coupling (“T” rating), hearing aids operating in inductive coupling mode turn off the microphone to avoid amplifying unwanted ambient noise, instead using a telecoil to receive only audio signal-based magnetic fields generated by inductive coupling-capable telephones.

The FCC “M; and “T” ratings indicate whether a handset can be expected to function well with a hearing aid and are generally marked clearly on the handset packaging. The “M” or “T” rating does not guarantee that the handset will function without distortion or noise, so ASTAC recommends that you test the handset before purchasing. Note: Handsets with Wi-Fi calling capabilities may not have been tested for hearing aid compatibility in this calling mode

Levels of Functionality & Price Categories

Basic phones

Basic phones may be candy bar, slider or flip style. These devices will have 2 Megapixel or better cameras and are capable of making and receiving calls, sending and receiving text messages. WAP browsing and picture messaging may also be available on some models.

Mid-Level phones

Mid-Level phones will have higher resolution cameras, MP3 Music players, Bluetooth capabilities, HTML internet browser and larger, high resolution, displays. Some phones in this category have touch screens and/or slide out QWERTY keyboards.

Smartphones

Smartphones have advanced operating systems like iOS, Google Android, and Microsoft Windows Mobile which allow for application additions. These devices support both voice and data communications and generally are Wi-Fi capable and feature rich.