You may have heard of a new technology called “Auracast” – and in 2026, it’s no longer just on the horizon. Auracast is now available in a growing number of hearing aids and is beginning to appear in real public venues. But what is it and how does it work?
This blog explains how Auracast is revolutionising hearing in public spaces:
What Is the Current System in Public Places for Hearing Aid Users?
The traditional hearing loop system has long been relied upon for audio amplification in public spaces such as churches and theatres – you may have seen the blue “hearing loop” sign in venues indicating that it is available. This system involves a wire loop that emits magnetic signals, picked up by hearing aids equipped with a telecoil. While effective, this system is old technology with limitations, often leading to listening challenges in crowded or noisy environments.
What Is Auracast?
Auracast is a Low Energy Bluetooth functionality that enables a source device, such as a TV or speaker, to transmit one or multiple audio streams directly to an unlimited array of audio receivers like earbuds, speakers, or hearing aids. Users can then select the audio stream(s) they wish their listening device to connect to.
Unlike traditional Bluetooth, which requires pairing two devices together one at a time, Auracast works more like a Wi-Fi signal for sound – you simply tune in to the broadcast in range.
What Is Different About Auracast?
Auracast revolutionises the hearing aid experience by addressing the limitations of the traditional hearing loop system. This innovative technology allows for direct audio streaming into hearing aids and cochlear implants, eliminating the reliance on hearing loops. In bustling environments, Auracast ensures clear and uninterrupted audio reception, offering a practical solution to the challenges posed by the traditional system.
Auracast also uses less power than current Bluetooth streaming, which means less drain on hearing aid batteries during use.
How Can Auracast Be Used in Different Listening Environments?
There are a number of ways Auracast can be used:
Simplified Audio Sharing in Social Groups: Users can effortlessly share their audio experiences with friends, removing the need for complex negotiations around headphone sharing!
Clear Public Announcements: Auracast ensures public announcements are heard clearly, irrespective of environmental noise. Picture this: you’re in a bustling airport, and the announcer’s voice for your flight arrival is crystal clear in your ears, unaffected by the chaos around. Or public venues – you can tune into the speaker system, stream specific music or TV channels during a workout, or engage in a private conversation at your bank. That’s Auracast at work, creating a network where everyone with compatible devices, such as hearing aids and headphones, can join in.
Flexible TV Time: You can enjoy your favourite shows in various settings, from waiting rooms to noisy environments, thanks to Auracast turning every TV screen into a personal audio haven.
Unified Hearing Aid and Earbud Use: Auracast resolves the traditional dilemma of choosing between hearing aids and earbuds, providing users with unilateral hearing loss a balanced audio experience.
Which Hearing Aids Support Auracast?
Auracast is no longer a future technology – it’s available now in a growing number of hearing aids. Leading brands including ReSound, Oticon, and Phonak have released Auracast-compatible models, with more manufacturers following closely behind.
ReSound Nexia was the first fully Auracast-enabled hearing aid to reach the market, and newer models such as the ReSound Vivia and Savi have continued to advance the capability. Every major hearing aid manufacturer is now moving towards Auracast support.
If you’re considering an upgrade, it’s worth asking your audiologist specifically about Auracast compatibility – and whether the model also includes a telecoil, so you retain access to traditional hearing loop systems during the transition period.
What Does This New Technology Mean for Hearing Aids?
Auracast signifies a significant advancement in hearing aid technology. By offering direct audio streaming and enhancing connectivity, it ensures a more inclusive and enjoyable auditory experience. Users can expect a seamless integration that goes beyond the limitations of traditional hearing loop systems for public places, making high-quality, personalised sound a universal reality for everyone.
Venue adoption is also growing. Auracast transmitters are beginning to appear in airports, theatres, lecture halls and other public spaces – and an international standard for Auracast venues is expected by late 2027, which will help ensure consistent experiences wherever you go.
For more information on Auracast, visit: https://www.bluetooth.com/auracast/
