Will my hearing aid still work with my new cell phone?
I love new gadgets and electronic toys as much as the next guy… well, maybe even more. So, it’s great so see so many of my patients taking advantage of the newest technologies that allow you to ‘pair’ your cell phone to your hearing aids. This technology allows you to adjust the volume, bass and treble, change memories based on your particular situation, find your hearing aids if you lose them, and even stream phone calls or music directly into your ears on some devices. Needless to say, this kind of power becomes extremely addictive!
If you’re one of our patients that is realizing the full potential of this connection, don’t switch cell phone models before checking with us!!! It is possible that your hearing aid app will no longer function with a newer phone. Particularly if you’re an Android user.
This has been a particular problem with the ReSound LiNX / TruHearing Flyte apps being used on an Android phone.
The folks in manufacturing have confirmed that the ReSound Smart, GN Hearing Tuner and TruHearing apps are not currently compatible with the Samsung Galaxy S8. My recommendation is that Smart Hearing aid wearers using these apps do not upgrade to the Samsung Galaxy S8 at this time. I have yet to test a Galaxy S9, but would assume that we would have the same issues. We apologize to any users who have already upgraded their phone and no longer have access to the app. The engineers at ReSound are working diligently to resolve this issue.
The following Samsung products work just fine:
- Samsung Galaxy S7
- Samsung Galaxy S7 Edge
- Samsung Galaxy S6
- Samsung Galaxy S6 Edge
- Samsung Galaxy S5
- Samsung Galaxy S4
- Samsung Galaxy Note 4
- Samsung Galaxy Note 5
We have yet to find any problems with any of the newer versions of the Apple iPhone.
The takeaway message: If you’re using a smart phone app with your hearing aids, call Dr. Adam before you upgrade your phone. If you’re a do-it-yourselfer, try to download your new app at the store. If you can’t find it in the App Store or Play Store, be wary.
Here are some links to the manufacturers that may provide additional information with regard to your current situation.
ReSound:
ReSound LiNX 3D aids/apps:
https://www.resoundpro.com/en-US/compatibility/smart3dapp
ReSound LiNX and LiNX2 aids/apps (including TruHearing Flyte)
https://www.resoundpro.com/en-US/compatibility/smartapp
Oticon:
https://www.oticon.com/support/how-to/opn-wireless-connections/faq#which_android_phones_works
Signia:
Bluetooth helpline: (800) 350-6093
Phonak:
2018-03-22 19:50:25
