FCC Proposes Defining “Hearing Aid Compatibility” to Include Bluetooth Connectivity

The Federal Communications Commission (FCC) “tentatively concludes that requiring 100 percent of all handset models to be certified as hearing aid-compatible is an achievable object and seeks comment on revising the definition of hearing aid compatibility to include Bluetooth connectivity technology.” 

In addition, the FCC seeks comment on a number of implementation proposals related to this tentative conclusion. This determination also includes a proposal to broaden the current definition of hearing aid compatibility to include Bluetooth connectivity technology and to require at least 15 percent of offered handset models to connect to hearing aids through Bluetooth technology as an alternative to or in addition to a telecoil. 

The public comment period ends on February 26, 2024. Federal Register: Achieving 100% Wireless Handset Model Hearing Aid Compatibility