What's great about today's smartphone models is they come with settings that accommodate the needs of people with disabilities. Brands are making strides with innovative features such as Voice Access, where a user simply uses their voice to compose text messages or launch and navigate applications. Several smartphones are also hearing-aid compatible (HAC). However, while HAC phones are widespread and each brand has a handful of units suitable for users with hearing impairments, it's important to identify which units comply with the M4/T4 standards.
WHAT DOES M4/T4 MEAN?
The M4/T4 standards ensure your calls are as clear as possible when hooked with a hearing aid. M and T refer to how the phone communicates with your hearing aid. Quality is represented by numbers (the higher, the better). The M and T ratings range from 1 to 4, with 4 having the highest compatibility. When a hearing aid is highly compatible with your smartphone, it prevents intrusive noises and feedback from affecting usage, though unwanted noise could still seep in. In a nutshell:
M stands for microphone - This means that the phone uses your hearing aid's microphone with minimal interference from the phone's electronics.
T stands for telecoil - The phone transmits a magnetic signal to your hearing aid. This technology is also known as T-switch, T-coil or telephone switch. Generally much clearer than microphones, your hearing aid will play the sound directly into your ear. In effect, no extra noise or interference will disrupt you while using the microphone.
IMPORTANT TIPS
Hearing Loss Severity
Users with mild to moderate hearing loss (in-born or age-related) may not need to have their smartphone tweaked or set by professionals. Just attach your hearing aids to the phone and use them like usual. Some advanced models are equipped with sound technology that produces "acoustic coupling." Your hearing aid's microphone will automatically detect the sound reverberating from your phone. The caveat is you're likely to hear noises in the background.
That is why when you shop for a HAC phone, always look for the M rating when checking for hearing aid compatibility. Most iPhone units are rated M3 and compatible with hearing aids for mild to moderate hearing impairments.
Severe Hearing Loss
For serious hearing loss (or you simply want a phone with a clear signal), turn on the "telecoil" or "T" mode in your hearing aid. Because telecoils transmit sound directly to the hearing aid’s processor sans microphone, it effectively dissolves noise or feedback while also enhancing signal-to-noise ratio. Some hearing aids automatically switch on the telecoil, but others may require you to turn it on manually. If you are not certain about how to go about it, ask assistance from a hearing healthcare professional or your hearing aid's manufacturer. Make sure to test out the telecoil feature first when looking for HAC phones.
You might want to prioritise phones with a T4 rating. These models will help you maximise your use of the telecoil feature.
Bluetooth Settings
Bluetooth headphones are giving us more freedom of movement, essentially changing the way we listen to music and audio media. Now, it's also possible for the hearing impaired to enjoy this technology. But first, make sure your hearing aid works well with Bluetooth. There is a lot of sorting out to do. Check with your hearing aid and phone manufacturers for compatibility details. The Australian Government's Hearing Services Program has fully subsidised some devices and you can check on their website to view the full list.
Landline Phones
Most Australian phones, including landlines, are HAC. If you're looking for the right home phone, just look for the HAC mark or ask the store for recommendations before purchasing. The M and T ratings mentioned above still apply, so make sure to choose a unit with higher ratings for better compatibility. This is applicable to all types of landline phones, cordless or wired. Landlines are not as portable as smartphones but they have a more stable network or Internet signal and produce high quality sounds.
Be cautious during the purchase phase. You will see several units marked as HAC, yet the extra features are likely to obstruct your hearing. Test out the landline before deciding to buy it.
BUY HEARING AID COMPATIBLE (HAC) PHONES
An HAC phone offers convenience for individuals with hearing disabilities while also improving their way of life. Now they can communicate without impediments and enjoy the advantages of smartphone use like the rest of us. Looking for the best HAC phones in Australia? Explore Mobileciti today! View a wide selection of M3 and T4 rated smartphones from different brands on our online tech store.