Phones

Hearing Aid Compatibility (HAC)

All phones have been tested and rated for use with hearing aids for some of the wireless technologies they use. However, there may be newer wireless technologies used that have not been tested yet for use with hearing aids. It is important to try the different features of phones thoroughly and in different locations, using your hearing aid or cochlear implant, to determine if you hear any interfering noise.

HAC ratings

M-Rating: The M-rating determines the Radio Frequency emissions level and signal quality of a phone. Phones with a higher M-rating have a lower RF emissions level and a higher signal quality.

• The hearing aid must be in microphone mode in order to replicate the mode that was used to achieve the rating.
• The phone's M-rating, along with the hearing aids M-rating, assists customers in finding a phone that works best for them.
• It is recommended that the rating of the 2 devices (hearing aid and phone) add up to at least a 5.

T-Rating: A Telecoil is a small device built into some hearing aids that allow for a better experience when using a telephone or listening device. Not all hearing aids or listening devices have a Telecoil.

• The Telecoil on a hearing aid is switched to the T position, or a button on the hearing aid is pushed to select the Telecoil setting.
• The Telecoil gathers magnetic fields generated by telephones and converts these fields into sound.
• Telecoil is particularly useful for telephone communication because it permits the volume control of a hearing aid to be turned up without creating feedback or whistling. Background noise can be reduced, especially when using devices in noisy places.

Consult your service provider or the manufacturer for information on hearing aid compatibility. If you have questions about return or exchange policies, consult your service provider or phone retailer. For additional information on hearing aid compatibility visit https://www.fcc.gov/hearing-aid-compatibility-wireless-telephones and https://www.gari.info/

See past phone offerings and their HAC ratings

Updated 9/22/2020