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SAFETY
5
HEARING AID COMPATIBILITY WITH
MOBILE PHONES
When some mobile 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 ratings for some of their
mobile phones, to assist hearing device users in finding 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 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.
M-Ratings: Phones rated M3 or M4 meet FCC requirements and are
likely to generate less interference to hearing devices than phones that
are not labeled. M4 is the better/higher of the two ratings.
T-Ratings: Phones rated T3 or T4 meet FCC requirements and are likely
to be more usable with a hearing device’s telecoil (“T Switch” or
“Telephone Switch”) than unrated phones. T4 is the better/higher of the
two ratings. (Note that not all hearing devices have telecoils in them.)
Hearing devices may also be measured for immunity to this type of
interference. Your hearing device manufacturer or hearing health
professional may help you find results for your hearing device.