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On July 10, 2003, the U.S. Federal Communications Commission (FCC) Report and Order in WT Docket 01-309 modified
the exception of wireless phones under the Hearing Aid Compatibility Act of 1988 (HAC Act) to require digital wireless phones
be compatible with hearing-aids. The intent of the HAC Act is to ensure reasonable access to telecommunications services
for persons with hearing disabilities.
While some wireless phones are used near some hearing devices (hearing aids and cochlear implants), users may detect
a buzzing, humming, or whining noise. Some hearing devices are more immune than others to this interference noise, and
phones also vary in the amount of interference they generate.
The wireless telephone industry has developed a rating system for wireless phones, to assist hearing device users find
phones that may be compatible with their hearing devices. Not all phones have been rated. Phones that are rated have the
rating on their box or a label located on the box.
The ratings are not guarantees. Results will vary depending on the user’s hearing device and hearing loss. If your hearing
device happens to be vulnerable to interference, you may not be able to use a rated phone successfully. Trying out the phone
with your hearing device is the best way to evaluate it for your personal needs.
FCC Hearing Aid Compatibility (HAC) Regulations for
Wireless Devices