January 24, 2024
Twigby strives to offer a wide selection of phones meeting the Federal Communications Commission's (FCC) standards for wireless device use with hearing aids. The hearing aid compatibility ratings for the devices we offer are listed in the chart below.
These phones have been tested and rated for use with hearing aids for some of the wireless technologies that they use. However, there may be some newer wireless technologies used in the phone that have not been tested yet for use with hearing aids. It is important to try the different features of the phone thoroughly and in different locations, using your hearing aid or cochlear implant, to determine if you hear any interfering noise. Consult your service provider or the manufacturer of the phone for information on hearing aid compatibility. If you have questions about return or exchange policies, consult your service provider.
Information on hearing aid compatibility is available from the Federal Communications Commission at https://www.fcc.gov/hearing-aid-compatibility-wireless-telephones.
General information regarding hearing aid-compatible and non-hearing aid compatible handset models is available at http://gari.info/.
Level of Functionality Descriptions:
Basic - (MSRP - $149.99 or less) Phones classified as "basic" offer the necessary wireless features and may have a lower-quality camera and limited Bluetooth® or Internet capabilities. Typically, these phones offer smaller phone book capacity and average talk time. Most of these phones are generally flip screen phones and lack features such as MP3 players, expandable memory and download capabilities.
Average - (MSRP - $150 - $299.99) Phones classified as "average" generally offer lower-quality cameras (compared to advanced models), handsfree and headset Bluetooth® profiles, expandable memory, larger phone book capacity, an enhanced color display or increased talk time (over basic models). However, these phones offer fewer features than advanced models.
Advanced - (MSRP - $300 Plus) Phones classified as "advanced" generally offer enhanced features such as a higher-quality camera, multiple Bluetooth® profiles, Internet access, high-speed processing, a touch-screen interface, email or an Android operating system.
Hearing Aid Compatible Frequently Asked Questions
What does hearing aid compatibility (HAC) mean for wireless devices?
The FCC defines HAC for wireless devices in terms of two parameters: radio frequency (RF) emissions and telecoil coupling. Wireless devices that comply with the FCC's hearing aid compatibility rule must receive a minimum rating of M3 for RF emissions and T3 for telecoil coupling.
What does the "M" rating mean?
"M" refers to the RF emissions level of the device, and means that the device is intended for use with hearing aids in microphone mode. The higher the "M" rating for a device, the more likely it can be used with a hearing aid on the microphone setting.
What does the "T" rating mean?
"T" refers to the device's telecoil coupling ability, and means that the device is intended for use with hearing aids in telecoil mode. The higher the "T" rating for a device, the more likely the device can be used with a hearing aid on the telecoil setting.
A telecoil is a small device that is built into some hearing aids for use with the telephone as well as assistive listening devices. To use the telecoil, generally either the hearing aid is switched to the "T" position or a button on the hearing aid is pushed to select the telecoil program. Some newer hearing aids will automatically switch to telecoil mode when using a phone. The telecoil picks up magnetic fields generated by telephones and converts these fields into sound. Telecoils are particularly useful for telephone communication because they permit the volume control of a hearing aid to be turned up without creating feedback or "whistling," and background noise can be reduced especially when using wireless devices in noisy places. A hearing health professional can determine whether a hearing aid contains a telecoil and how it is activated.
How do I know if a wireless device is HAC compliant?
HAC-compliant devices will include a Hearing Aid Compatible icon next to them on the main list of phones. By clicking to view an individual device's details, the list of features will contain the HAC rating. Also, HAC-compliant device packages are marked with "M3" or "M4" ratings. The "M" rating refers to the microphone mode. Only phones that meet HAC compliance will be labeled as such. Every individual's hearing loss is unique; therefore, these ratings do not guarantee performance.
Do the HAC ratings guarantee that I will be able to use a wireless device with my hearing aid?
While there is no guarantee, wireless devices that comply with HAC regulations should improve usability for hearing aid wearers. Hearing loss and hearing aids are highly individualized so it is advisable to consult with your audiologist or hearing healthcare professional before making your wireless device purchase.
How do I know if my hearing aid will work with my wireless device?
Your hearing healthcare professional will be able to tell you if your hearing aid is immune to RF interference and may need to contact the manufacturer of your hearing aid to determine its immunity rating.
Can I try a wireless device to determine if it works with my hearing aid?
Yes, our return and exchange policy allows ample time to determine if a wireless device works with your hearing aid.
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