Some hearing aids (Phonak and Unitron) use ‘classic Bluetooth‘ and can connect direct to PC’s via the Bluetooth settings on your PC / Mac. Simple.

Up to 2024 all other (wireless compatibile) hearing aids use standard BLE Bluetooth (Bluetooth Low Energy) and can connect direct to iPads / tablets, but not to computers. If you want to connect these hearing aids to your computer there are two solutions:

1. You can buy an intermediary streaming accessory for your relevant hearing aids – shop here, such as Oticon ConnectClip or Oticon Easy LE Adaptor for Oticon hearing aids.
2. You can use a dedicated programme called ‘AudioRelay’.

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What is AudioRelay?

AudioRelay is a software that allows you to stream audio between your devices. It enables your phone to function as a microphone or speakers for your PC. Key features include using your smartphone as a microphone for your PC, streaming your PC’s audio to your phone in real-time, wireless and USB connection options, and the ability to connect to multiple devices simultaneously. It is designed to provide low latency, offering a smoother experience compared to Bluetooth connections. For more detailed information and instructions, you can visit their website at AudioRelay.

Note you may get unacceptable lag if streaming so may need to plug your phone in via USB to reduce this a lot.

Watch the video

Download the AudioRelay App here

Try it out and let us know how you get on!

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NEW DEVELOPMENT – ‘LE Audio Bluetooth’

Many new hearing aids coming out (as of 2024) are using ‘LE Audio Bluetooth‘ – a development on BLE Bluetooth that allows for high fidelity, low energy, two way audio streaming.

All device that utilise ‘LE Audio Bluetooth’ will be able to connect together and stream audio two ways – this is big news, and will develop massively in the next few years in two ways:

1. Personal streaming – connecting all your devices up – this means your hearing aids to your PC, or TV direct – no accessory or secondary programme needed.
2. Socially – via medi outlets, theatres cinames, lecture halls etc – 1, or 100 people – this will be known as ‘Auracast‘.

Please read our blog article on Auracast Streaming here.

And more reading on Auracast here.

Our advice to anyone buying new hearing aids is to ensure you buy hearing aids with LE Audio included.

YOU MUST FOLLOW AURACAST IF YOU WEAR HEARING AIDS!

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This information was kindly offered to us from one of our hearing aid clients – if you find something that helps you, and will help other wearers, please share the information so we can feature it.