Frequently asked questions about Auracast in conjunction with hearing aids
Basic Information
1. What is Auracast™?
Auracast™ is a new wireless technology that allows you to broadcast audio over Bluetooth from one device (such as a TV, microphone, or mobile phone) to multiple people at once – similar to “audio broadcasting.”
2. How does Auracast work in hearing aids?
A hearing aid with Auracast support can “receive” publicly broadcast audio, for example at airports, theaters, or cinemas, and play it directly into your ears.
3. What is the difference between classic Bluetooth and Auracast?
Traditional Bluetooth is a “one-to-one” connection, while Auracast allows one transmitter to broadcast to many listeners simultaneously.
4. Who developed Auracast™?
Auracast™ is developed by the Bluetooth SIG, the organization behind the Bluetooth standard.
5. Is Auracast only for people who are deaf or hard of hearing?
No, Auracast is for everyone. However, it significantly improves accessibility for hearing aid users or people with hearing loss.
Compatibility and Devices
6. Do I need new hearing aids to use Auracast?
Yes, you need hearing aids that support Bluetooth LE Audio and Auracast™. Older models are not compatible.
7. How do I know if my hearing aid supports Auracast?
The manufacturer must explicitly state this in the technical specifications. Look for the “Auracast” or “Bluetooth LE Audio” label.
8. Do I need a special phone?
Your phone must support Bluetooth LE Audio. Newer models (e.g., some Android phones from 2023 onwards) already support it.
9. Does Auracast work with the iPhone?
Not yet on all models – Apple does not fully support Auracast at the moment, but it is expected soon.
10. Can I use Auracast with a cochlear implant?
Yes, some modern implants are beginning to support Auracast – it depends on the manufacturer and model.
Everyday Use
11. Where can Auracast be used?
For example at airports, train stations, museums, cinemas, conference halls, or churches.
12. Is Auracast available in the Czech Republic?
Limited for now, but expanding. Wider adoption is expected from 2025–2026 as more devices support it.
13. Will Auracast help me hear better in noisy environments?
Yes, because the sound goes directly into your hearing aids without background noise.
14. Can I use Auracast at home?
Yes, if you have a compatible TV, microphone, or transmitter that supports Auracast.
15. Can I switch between multiple Auracast sources?
Yes, some devices allow you to select which broadcast you want to join – similar to choosing a Wi-Fi network.
Setup and Control
16. How do I connect to an Auracast broadcast?
Through an app or Bluetooth settings on your hearing aid or phone – broadcasts are usually named (e.g., “Prague Airport – Gate 3”).
17. Do I need an app to control Auracast?
Sometimes yes, depending on the hearing aid manufacturer – the app may let you select audio sources or adjust volume.
18. Do I need to be connected to the internet?
No, Auracast works via Bluetooth – it does not require Wi-Fi or mobile data.
19. How many people can join the same broadcast?
Theoretically unlimited – this is one of the major advantages of Auracast.
20. Can Auracast be used for private listening?
Yes, for example when watching a movie at home without disturbing others.
Security and Privacy
21. Is Auracast safe?
Yes, but note that public broadcasts can be heard by anyone who joins. Private transmissions can be encrypted.
22. Can someone track me through Auracast?
No, connecting to Auracast does not transmit any personal data.
23. Can someone else connect to my hearing aid?
No, the hearing aid only “receives” the signal – it is not a transmitter.
24. Does Auracast transmit personal data?
No, it transmits only audio – such as announcements, speech, or movie sound.
25. Can I prevent unwanted connections to public broadcasts?
Yes, you can block or filter Auracast broadcasts based on their name.
Future and Outlook
26. Will Auracast become a standard in the future?
Yes, Auracast is expected to replace some older assistive technologies (such as induction loops).
27. How fast is Auracast spreading?
Quite fast – from 2025 it is being deployed in public spaces across Europe, the USA, and Asia.
28. Will all new hearing aids support Auracast?
Gradually yes – major manufacturers (e.g., Phonak, Oticon, Starkey) are already introducing compatible models.
29. Will Auracast completely replace induction loops?
Probably yes, but the transition will take several years – the technologies will coexist for a while.
30. How do I know if a place supports Auracast?
There should be a visible Auracast Broadcast Audio logo, similar to the Wi-Fi symbol.