The latest in hearing aid technology is a development put forth by Google and ReSound, who have worked together to develop a technology called Audio Streaming for Hearing Aids, or ASHA. Thanks to this technology, life has been made a little bit easier for hearing aid users: instead of needing to go through a separate device or add on an accessory, users can now stream music and calls directly to the hearing aid device.
A Look at the New Technology
For quite some time, ReSound/Android users have been able to connect their hearing aids to their phones using the ReSound Smart 3D app. This app, however, primarily allowed for control of basic features: volume control and program change. The latest technology, however, offers new advances that will make life considerably easier for hearing aid users.
Stream music directly to your Resound LiNX Quattro hearing aid. Instead of needing a separate device, like a Telecoil, hearing aid users can stream their music directly to the hearing aid. This means that users can comfortably enjoy their own music, controlled from the convenience of an Android phone, no matter where they go. If the hearing aids are in, it’s possible to listen to music at the user’s preferred volume–and easily adapt that music to deal with other sounds in the area, whether you want to allow them through your hearing aid or block them out while exercising or engaging in another activity.
Stream calls straight to your Resound LiNX Quattro phone hearing aid. When a call comes through on your phone, thanks to ASHA, you don’t have to hold the phone to your ear or crank the volume up on it. Instead, you can simply stream the phone straight to your ReSound hearing aids. This can help keep calls private while delivering the same high-quality sound you always expect from your hearing aid. You can also use the volume controls on your phone to adjust that volume as needed.
Compatibility Questions
Users with the latest ReSound LiNX Quattro hearing aids are the first users who will be able to access this latest advancement in technology. These hearing aids can be connected with compatible Android devices that use the latest release, Android 10. While they may later become compatible on other devices, right now, they are primarily available on the Google Pixel 3 line of smartphones as well as Samsung Galaxy 9 and 10. Using these newer model, high-quality devices will ensure that you have access to the latest technology and can use it to seamlessly stream the high-quality sound you need from your device.
Need to check compatibility?
Download the Resound Smart 3D app and click the “Getting Started” icon. Follow the on-screen prompts to connect your hearing aids to your phone. If your device is compatible, you will view a screen that invites you to start using your hearing aids–it’s as easy as that!
You may receive a warning icon indicating that you need to check your settings. Make the necessary changes, and you’ll be ready to get started.
A double warning icon on “Direct Audio Streaming” and “My Resound” indicates that your device is not compatible, and you will need to upgrade to a compatible device to take advantage of this technology.
Have questions about this technology and the benefits it can provide in your life? Want to upgrade to ReSound hearing aids and the technology they can offer? Contact us today to learn more.