“Bluetooth compatible” can mean different things from one hearing aid to another. Models vary in which phones and devices they connect to, whether they support hands-free calls, and how they handle streaming, app controls and newer features such as Auracast.
There’s no single best Bluetooth hearing aid for everyone. The right choice depends on your hearing needs, the devices you use, how you want to use Bluetooth, and practical factors such as comfort, battery life and support.
What to look for in Bluetooth hearing aids
Before comparing Bluetooth hearing aid brands and models, focus on these five questions:
- Does the hearing aid meet your hearing needs?
- Will it work with your exact phone (and other devices)?
- What do you want to stream or control?
- Will the battery last for your typical day?
- Can you try it out in daily life before committing?
Bluetooth is an important feature, but it shouldn’t outweigh the quality of the hearing aid fitting. A device that connects perfectly to your phone will still be disappointing if it doesn’t provide enough power, fit comfortably, or help with the listening situations that matter most to you.
Try Bluetooth hearing aids risk-free
Prescription Hearing offers a 60-day risk-free trial on all hearing aids. You can get help choosing a model, try it with your own phone, TV, and daily routine, and return it (no questions asked) if it’s not the right fit.
What can Bluetooth hearing aids do?
Bluetooth hearing aids offer many different uses depending on the model and connected device, such as:
- Streaming phone calls into one or both hearing aids
- Listening to music, podcasts, audiobooks and videos
- Hearing navigation directions from your phone
- Adjusting volume and hearing programs through an app
- Receiving remote adjustments or support
- Streaming television audio through a direct connection or accessory
- Connecting to remote microphones for meetings, restaurants or lectures
- Receiving audio broadcasts through Auracast (in compatible public spaces)
These features aren’t always bundled together. A hearing aid might offer app controls without direct audio streaming, for example. That’s why it’s important to dig deeper than a general statement like “works with Bluetooth.”
Start with the devices you frequently use
A common mistake is choosing a hearing aid first and checking Bluetooth compatibility after.
Instead, list the devices you want your hearing aids to work with:
- Your smartphone
- Tablet
- Windows or Mac computer
- Television
- Work videoconferencing system
- Any remote microphone or TV streaming accessory you own
The exact phone model matters, not just whether it’s an iPhone or Android. Compatibility can sometimes depend on your phone’s Bluetooth technology, operating system and software version.
Think about what you want Bluetooth to do. App controls, hands-free calls, TV streaming and switching between devices aren’t equally supported on every hearing aid.
Bluetooth Classic, Bluetooth Low Energy & LE Audio
You might come across different Bluetooth terms while comparing hearing aids. You don’t need to understand every technical detail, but knowing the basic differences can help you make your decision.
Bluetooth Classic
Bluetooth Classic is the familiar type of Bluetooth used on many phones, computers, headphones and other electronics.
In a hearing aid, Bluetooth Classic offers broad compatibility with different kinds of devices. This can be helpful if you want to stream audio from more than just your phone.
Signia Pure Charge&Go BCT IX, for example, uses Bluetooth Classic and supports hands-free calls and music streaming with compatible devices. Signia also provides instructions (both written and video) for pairing your hearing aids with iPhones, Android phones and computers.
Bluetooth Low Energy
Bluetooth Low Energy uses less power than Bluetooth Classic and can support hearing aid apps and direct streaming from compatible phones. Compatibility varies by hearing aid and phone, especially among Android devices, so Bluetooth Low Energy support alone doesn’t guarantee every streaming or calling feature will work.
Bluetooth LE Audio
Bluetooth LE Audio is a newer standard designed for efficient audio streaming with lower battery use. Bluetooth LE Audio also supports Auracast, which allows compatible hearing aids to receive shared audio broadcasts.
ReSound Vivia seamlessly connects to Bluetooth LE Audio and Auracast. ReSound also offers an Auracast Assistant through its Smart 3D app and compatible streaming accessories.
But newer doesn’t necessarily mean better for every person. Bluetooth LE Audio is valuable if you have compatible devices and want emerging technology like Auracast. However, Bluetooth Classic is more practical if connecting to a wider variety of devices is your main priority.
What is Auracast?
Auracast is a newer Bluetooth capability that can broadcast audio to multiple compatible receivers at once.
Public locations with Auracast (like airports, theaters, houses of worship and more) let you connect your hearing aids directly to audio. It can also be used with compatible personal devices and television accessories. Availability is still expanding, so before choosing a hearing aid primarily for Auracast, check whether it’s supported by your phone and the places you’d want to use it.
Auracast is an exciting and forward-looking feature, but it shouldn’t take priority over your hearing needs, comfort or current device compatibility.
Will Bluetooth hearing aids work with your phone?
Most major prescription hearing-aid brands offer models that work with iPhones and at least some Android phones. However, the experience isn’t always the same across different devices.
Bluetooth hearing aids for iPhone
Many hearing aids can stream directly from compatible iPhones and connect to a manufacturer’s app.
Depending on the hearing aid model, you can:
- Stream calls and media
- Make hands-free calls
- Adjust volume and programs
- Check battery status
- Locate misplaced hearing aids
- Request remote support
Some hearing aids use Apple’s Made for iPhone technology. Others use Bluetooth Classic or LE Audio.
Don’t assume that “Made for iPhone” answers every compatibility question. Confirm whether the Bluetooth hearing aid you’re considering supports hands-free calls, how it switches between devices, and whether all the app features you want will work with your phone.
Bluetooth hearing aids for Android
Android compatibility with Bluetooth hearing aids needs closer attention because phones from different manufacturers can have different hardware and software.
Depending on the hearing aid and phone, direct streaming may rely on:
- ASHA, or Audio Streaming for Hearing Aids
- Bluetooth LE Audio
- Bluetooth Classic
- A manufacturer-specific accessory
Some Android phones support streaming but not hands-free calling. Others might require a newer operating system or specific Bluetooth version.
ReSound, for example, maintains device-compatibility information for its hearing aids and notes that access to LE Audio features depends on the connected device.
Always check your exact phone model rather than relying on a general statement that a hearing aid “works with Android.”
Can Bluetooth hearing aids connect to computers and TVs?
Some Bluetooth hearing aids connect directly to compatible computers, tablets and televisions. Others need a separate accessory.
Even when a hearing aid can pair with several devices, it might not stay actively connected to all of them or move between devices automatically.
For example, Signia’s Bluetooth connectivity support page says that Pure Charge&Go BCT IX can pair with different devices, but you’ll need to manually select the hearing aids when switching to a previously paired device.
TV Bluetooth connections also vary. Some hearing aids can connect directly to certain televisions, while others use a dedicated TV streamer. A TV accessory can provide a stable connection with the added benefit of controlling the sound in your hearing aids without changing the volume for everyone else in the room.
Choose hearing aids based on how you’ll actually use Bluetooth
The value of Bluetooth in hearing aids depends on your daily routine.
For frequent phone calls
Look for hearing aids that support true hands-free calling with your phone. With a fully hands-free connection, you can hear the caller through your hearing aids and speak without holding the phone near your mouth.
Find out how calls are answered, whether both hearing aids receive the call, and how well your voice is picked up in noisy places.
For music, podcasts and audiobooks
Bluetooth can make media easier to hear by sending it directly through hearing aids programmed for your hearing loss.
But audio streaming quality depends on more than Bluetooth capability. The physical fit, receiver strength, earmold or dome, and professional programming can all affect fullness and sound quality. A very open fitting can allow some low-frequency streamed sound to leak.
An audiologist can help balance streaming quality with comfort and awareness of surrounding sounds.
For television
Find out if the hearing aids connect directly to your specific TV or need an accessory.
A dedicated streamer may be the most reliable solution if television listening is a priority. Check whether the television’s regular speakers will stay on so other people can listen at their own volume.
For work and meetings
People who attend virtual meetings or use several devices should look for Bluetooth hearing aids with broad computer compatibility and easy switching between connections.
A remote microphone is another option for conferences, classes or large group settings. The microphone can be placed near the person speaking and send their voice directly to the hearing aids.
For travel and public places
Auracast is becoming increasingly useful in public spaces. A telecoil (an older technology) can also remain valuable in venues equipped with hearing loops.
Depending on where you travel, useful Bluetooth hearing aid features to look for may include:
- Auracast support
- Telecoil access
- Phone and navigation streaming
- Portable charging
- Remote microphone compatibility
Which hearing aid style is best for Bluetooth?
Bluetooth is most common in receiver-in-canal (RIC) and behind-the-ear (BTE) hearing aids. These styles generally have more room for wireless components, rechargeable batteries and physical controls. They also work for a wide range of hearing losses.
Receiver-in-canal hearing aids
Receiver-in-canal hearing aids sit behind the ear, with a thin wire connecting to a receiver in the ear canal. They’re popular Bluetooth options because they can combine several desirable features like:
- Rechargeability
- Direct streaming
- Multiple microphones
- App controls
- Different receiver power levels
- Compatibility with wireless accessories
Many current prescription Bluetooth hearing aids are RIC models.
Behind-the-ear hearing aids
Behind-the-ear hearing aids can be a good choice for people who need more amplification, larger controls or custom earmolds.
Bluetooth availability depends on the model, but many BTE devices support streaming and accessories.
In-the-ear hearing aids
Some custom in-the-ear (ITE) hearing aids offer Bluetooth streaming and app controls, like the Phonak Virto Infinio.
Bluetooth availability for ITE models sometimes depends on the size. Very small custom hearing aids have less room for wireless components and batteries. The smallest invisible-in-canal styles usually don’t offer full audio streaming. Moving to a slightly larger style can provide better connectivity or battery life without making the hearing aids especially noticeable.
Rechargeable vs disposable batteries
Bluetooth streaming uses additional power, so battery type is an important part of the decision.
Rechargeable batteries are common in premium Bluetooth hearing aids. You typically place them in a charger overnight and wear them throughout the following day.
Rechargeable Bluetooth hearing aids are a good fit if:
- You stream audio regularly
- Small disposable batteries are hard to handle
- You prefer a consistent charging routine
- You want a portable charging case
Disposable batteries still have advantages for some people. They can be replaced immediately and don’t require access to an outlet or charged case.
When comparing rechargeable Bluetooth hearing aids, pay attention to battery life under real-life conditions. A manufacturer’s maximum estimate can be based on limited streaming. Find out how long the batteries will last in a day that includes several hours of calls, music or television.
Features that matter beyond Bluetooth
Bluetooth should be part of the buying decision, but not the primary factor. Your hearing aids still need to work in the environments where you have difficulty hearing.
Consider:
- The degree and shape of your hearing loss
- Speech understanding
- Hearing in background noise
- Comfort and physical fit
- Whether one ear hears differently from the other
- Receiver power
- Feedback management
- Water and moisture resistance
- Available hearing programs
- Remote microphone compatibility
- Ease of handling and charging
Someone who struggles mainly with conversations in busy restaurants may need strong speech-in-noise processing in addition to Bluetooth. Someone with one-sided hearing loss may need a Bluetooth hearing aid compatible with a CROS system.
Phonak Infinio Ultra Sphere combines universal Bluetooth connectivity with dedicated processing designed to separate speech from surrounding noise. ReSound Vivia combines Bluetooth LE Audio and Auracast with its sound-processing platform. Signia BCT IX combines Bluetooth Classic with Signia’s conversation-focused Integrated Xperience technology.
Bluetooth hearing aids available at Prescription Hearing
Prescription Hearing offers prescription hearing aids with different connectivity approaches. None is automatically right for every person.
The best Bluetooth hearing aid depends on your hearing evaluation, preferred devices, listening environments, budget, and comfort.
Phonak Audéo Infinio Ultra
Phonak Audéo Infinio Ultra is a rechargeable receiver-in-canal hearing aid with broad Bluetooth connectivity.
Phonak emphasizes universal connectivity beyond iPhones and Android phones, including hands-free calls and streaming from compatible Bluetooth devices. The Audéo model can be useful for someone who connects to several types of personal electronics or prefers a platform with broad device compatibility.
Prescription Hearing offers Audéo configurations with different performance levels and care packages.
Phonak Infinio Ultra Sphere
Phonak Infinio Ultra Sphere offers Phonak’s universal Bluetooth connectivity along with a dedicated AI chip for separating speech from noise.
It’s worth considering for people who want strong Bluetooth flexibility and have a high priority on understanding conversations in busy, multidirectional environments.
The Sphere model is rechargeable and uses Phonak’s DEEPSONIC chip and Spheric Speech Clarity processing.
Prescription Hearing offers Infinio Sphere Ultra in different performance levels and colors.
Phonak Virto R Infinio
Phonak Virto R Infinio is a custom-made, rechargeable in-the-ear hearing aid designed around the shape and acoustic needs of each ear. It combines a discreet fit with Phonak’s universal Bluetooth connectivity, allowing users to pair up to eight Bluetooth devices and keep two connected at the same time.
It’s worth considering for someone who prefers an in-the-ear hearing aid but doesn’t want to give up direct streaming or broad device compatibility. Virto R Infinio also uses AutoSense OS 7.0 to recognize and adjust to different listening environments automatically.
ReSound Vivia
ReSound Vivia uses Bluetooth LE Audio and supports Auracast broadcast audio.
This may appeal to someone with compatible devices who wants efficient modern streaming and access to Auracast as the technology becomes more widely available.
Vivia also works with ReSound accessories such as their TV-Streamer+ and Multi-Mic+. ReSound’s Auracast Assistant is available through the ReSound Smart 3D app.
Prescription Hearing’s Vivia offerings include many different colors and performance levels.
Signia Pure Charge&Go BCT IX
Signia Pure Charge&Go BCT IX uses Bluetooth Classic and supports hands-free calls and direct audio streaming.
Its broad compatibility is helpful for people who use different types of phones, computers or other Bluetooth devices. It also includes Signia’s Integrated Xperience processing, which is designed around conversations with multiple speakers.
Prescription Hearing offers Signia IX in different performance levels, colors, and care plans.
Comparing our Bluetooth hearing aids
Consider which connectivity approach best fits your life:
| Your priority | Model worth discussing |
| Broad compatibility with different Bluetooth devices | Phonak Audéo Infinio Ultra |
| Broad connectivity plus advanced speech-in-noise processing | Phonak Infinio Ultra Sphere |
| Broad connectivity with custom in-the-ear fit | Phonak Virto Infinio |
| Bluetooth LE Audio and Auracast | ReSound Vivia |
| Bluetooth Classic for phones, computers and other devices | Signia Pure Charge&Go BCT IX |
Remember: Bluetooth is only one factor, and this is only a starting point. Your hearing evaluation, fitting needs and preferred style may point to a specific model.
How much do Bluetooth hearing aids cost?
The cost of Bluetooth hearing aids varies widely.
Price depends on:
- Brand and model
- Technology level
- Single hearing aid or a pair
- Rechargeable or disposable batteries
- Included accessories
- Professional fitting and follow-up care
Bluetooth is now included in many prescription hearing aids rather than sold as a separate feature. Higher prices often reflect advanced sound processing, additional listening features or a more comprehensive care package, not Bluetooth alone.
When comparing hearing aid prices, consider the entire purchase. A lower advertised price may not include professional programming, follow-up adjustments, accessories or the same risk-free trial and warranty protection.
OTC vs prescription Bluetooth hearing aids
Both OTC and prescription hearing aids can include Bluetooth, but they’re made for different hearing needs.
OTC hearing aids are for a simple mild hearing loss. They can be good for someone who’s comfortable adjusting a self-fitting device without an in-person hearing evaluation.
Prescription hearing aids are a better fit when:
- Hearing loss is more severe or complex
- Hearing differs significantly between ears
- Speech understanding is poor
- Custom earmolds or stronger receivers are needed
- Hearing fluctuates
- One-sided hearing loss needs CROS
- You want professional fitting and follow-up support
Bluetooth doesn’t change these underlying differences. A hearing aid can have excellent Bluetooth streaming but lack the power, fitting flexibility or support needed for your particular hearing loss.
Try Bluetooth hearing aids in real life
The best way to find the right Bluetooth hearing aids is to use them with your own devices in your day-to-day life.
That’s why Prescription Hearing provides a 60-day risk-free trial on all hearing aids.
You don’t need to pore over every specification or worry you’ll be stuck with expensive hearing aids that don’t work the way you’d hoped. We can help you select an appropriate model, then you can try it out in a variety of contexts and decide whether the hearing, comfort and Bluetooth connection work well for your everyday life.
Our 60-day trial is truly risk-free and no questions asked if the hearing aids aren’t right for you.
Bluetooth hearing aid FAQ
Are Bluetooth hearing aids worth it?
Bluetooth hearing aids may be worth it if you regularly use phone calls, television, music, videos, navigation or app controls. The feature may matter less if you rarely use connected devices, but Bluetooth is now included in many prescription models regardless.
What are the disadvantages of Bluetooth hearing aids?
Possible disadvantages include additional battery use during streaming, occasional pairing problems and compatibility differences among devices. Some people may also find app controls or device switching confusing until they become familiar with the process.
Do all hearing aids have Bluetooth?
No. Many current hearing aids offer Bluetooth or another type of wireless connectivity, but not every model provides direct audio streaming. Some devices use wireless technology only for app controls or programming.
Can Bluetooth hearing aids connect to any phone?
No. Compatibility depends on the hearing aid, phone model, operating system and Bluetooth standard. Always verify the exact combination before purchasing.
Can Bluetooth hearing aids connect to a smart TV?
Some can connect directly to compatible televisions. Others require a TV streaming accessory. A dedicated accessory can provide a more reliable connection and allow other people to continue hearing the television speakers.
Can Bluetooth hearing aids connect to a computer?
Some models connect directly to compatible Windows or Mac computers, while others require an accessory. Check whether the connection supports the specific tasks you need, such as streaming videos or participating in two-way calls.
Can Bluetooth hearing aids connect to more than one device?
Many can pair with multiple devices, but the number of active connections and the process for switching vary. Some reconnect automatically, while others need to be selected manually through the device’s Bluetooth settings.
Does Bluetooth drain hearing aid batteries?
Streaming uses more power than ordinary hearing-aid use. The effect depends on the hearing aid, battery, Bluetooth technology and number of hours streamed each day.
Can you get invisible hearing aids with Bluetooth?
Some small custom hearing aids offer Bluetooth, but the smallest invisible-in-canal devices frequently have limited wireless features. A slightly larger custom hearing aid may be necessary for full audio streaming. The Phonak Virto Infinio custom ITE hearing aid supports Bluetooth streaming.
Do Bluetooth hearing aids work without a smartphone?
Yes. The core hearing-aid functions continue to work without a smartphone. A compatible phone may be needed for streaming, app controls, remote support and certain advanced features.
Are Bluetooth hearing aids good for tinnitus?
Bluetooth doesn’t treat tinnitus, but it can make it easier to stream sound therapy, music or calming audio. Some hearing aids also include tinnitus-management programs. An audiologist can help determine which features may be useful for your hearing loss and tinnitus.
Are Bluetooth hearing aids good for Ménière’s disease?
Bluetooth isn’t specifically better or worse for Ménière’s disease. The more important considerations are the degree and fluctuation of hearing loss, available hearing programs and access to follow-up adjustments. Hearing aids may help with associated hearing loss but do not treat Ménière’s disease itself.
Are Bluetooth hearing aids good for otosclerosis?
People with hearing loss related to otosclerosis can use Bluetooth hearing aids, but the most important thing is getting enough amplification for the individual hearing loss. Receiver power, earmolds and professional fitting are more important than the type of Bluetooth connection.
Which Bluetooth hearing aids are best for Android?
There is no single best model for every Android phone. Look for a hearing aid that works with your exact phone and supports the functions you want, such as direct streaming, hands-free calls or LE Audio.
Which Bluetooth hearing aids are best for iPhone?
Many prescription hearing aids work well with iPhones. Compare hands-free calling, streaming, app features, battery life and the ability to connect to your other devices rather than relying only on a ‘Made for iPhone’ label.
Find Bluetooth hearing aids that fit your hearing and your life
The best Bluetooth hearing aid isn’t the one with the longest feature list or newest wireless standard.
It’s the hearing aid that:
- Fits your hearing loss
- Connects reliably to the devices you use
- Supports your important listening situations
- Feels comfortable throughout the day
- Comes with help when you need it
Prescription Hearing can help you compare Phonak, ReSound and Signia Bluetooth hearing aids including their Bluetooth capabilities and other important features.
You can begin by taking our free online hearing test, uploading a recent hearing evaluation, or contacting Prescription Hearing for personal guidance. Once you choose a hearing aid, you can try it with our 60-day, no-questions-asked risk-free trial to see how it performs in your own calls, conversations, entertainment and daily routine.
