Best Bluetooth Hearing Aids of 2023

The Best Made-for-iPhone and Android-Compatible Bluetooth Hearing Aids

hearing-aid-icon

SeniorLiving.org is compensated when you click on the provider links listed on this page. This compensation does not impact our ratings or reviews. Read our Editorial Guidelines here to learn more about our review process and to learn more about how we are compensated.

Best Bluetooth hearing aids available for online purchase
  • Connect with iOS and Android devices
  • Hearing aids are adjustable via the mobile app
  • Provide up to 30 hours of listening time per charge
Best battery life
  • Bluetooth connectivity to adjust volume and settings
  • Feature to locate lost hearing aids
  • Affordable hearing aids
Call for best price: Call to Order: (800) 422-9380
Most discreet
  • Adjustable settings via Bluetooth
  • Four invisible, CIC models to choose from
  • Up to two-year warranty
Call for best price: Call to Order: 855-922-3431
Scroll right for more options

What Are Bluetooth Hearing Aids?

Bluetooth hearing aids use technology to wirelessly transfer data and audio between multiple devices using radio waves. Bluetooth devices must be paired to each other and then connected. This connectivity can work directly with your hearing aids or by connecting to an intermediary device called a rebroadcaster.

Bluetooth hearing aids allow you to stream audio from many devices, including your phone, computer, tablet, or TV. That  means you can listen to music, take a phone call, or listen to the TV directly through your hearing aids!

Bluetooth hearing aids are not appropriate for group listening settings like lectures or houses of worship. It’s also important to understand that Bluetooth will not help you hear better during noise unless you are using a remote microphone that connects to your hearing aids.

Made-for-iPhone Hearing Aids

Back in 2015, Apple patented its own Bluetooth connectivity that is compatible with certain hearing aids from the industry’s leading providers. These are called Made-for-iPhone (MFi) hearing aids. This connectivity allows devices running on the iOS platform, such as iPhones, iPads, and iPods, to connect directly with the hearing aids without draining the battery. In May 2023, Apple announced that select Mac devices will soon be able to connect with MFi hearing aids as well.

Android-Compatible Hearing Aids

Google launched its own Bluetooth connectivity in 2018 for select Android phones. Most popular hearing aid brands now offer Android-compatible devices; however, only phones with Android 10 or later and Bluetooth 5.0+ technology will be compatible with these hearing aids.

How We Chose the Best Bluetooth Hearing Aids

It can be a challenge to sort through and research multiple brands and models of Bluetooth hearing aids. So, we’ve compiled a list of the top nine to help you make an informed and confident purchase. We assessed them based on several criteria, such as durability, ease of use, price, sound quality, and size. We also discuss the different Bluetooth functions, including streaming versus wireless adjustments to give you the full rundown on our favorite Bluetooth hearing aids.

19
Brands considered
3
Experts consulted
9
Brands selected
50
Hours of research
  • 1. Jabra Enhance

    Overview

    Jabra Enhance, formerly called Lively, prides itself on offering high-tech, FDA-approved, Bluetooth hearing aids. Chatting on the phone and listening to music just got easier with Jabra Enhance’s Bluetooth streaming. The company’s hearing aids are Made for iPhone, which means Jabra Enhance’s three behind-the-ear (BTE) models seamlessly connect with any iOS device. If you’re team Android, no worries! Depending on the model, Android users have direct or accessory-supported streaming.

    Jabra Enhance’s Bluetooth technology makes it easy to wirelessly adjust the hearing aids with just a few taps on your smartphone or tablet. Or you can reach out to a Jabra Enhance audiologist for remote adjustments if you purchase a premium package. If you’re shopping for a long-lasting rechargeable hearing aid, the Enhance Select 100 and Enhance Select 200 models provide up to 30 hours of listening time per charge, so you’ll be set for the entire day. If you’re looking for a battery-operated hearing aid, we recommend the Enhance Select 50 which comes with a one-year supply of batteries.

    Keep in mind that Jabra Enhance hearing aids are only sold online and are not custom fit in person, so they are best for seniors with mild to moderate hearing loss.

    Jabra Enhance Hearing Aids

    Jabra Enhance Hearing Aids

    Ease of use Equipment Service & Response Features & Tech Pricing
    Excellent Excellent Excellent Excellent
    Please scroll to the right for more info.
    Pros
    • Three years of follow-up hearing care and technical support with premium packages
    • Bluetooth for wireless adjustments and direct streaming
    • Free online hearing test
    • Wide range of color choices
    • 100-day, money-back guarantee
    • Three-year warranty with premium packages
    • Free shipping
    • Hands-free phone calls with Shop Select 200 model
    Cons
    • Not suitable for severe or profound hearing loss
    • Only BTE models available
    • Not all hearing aid models are equipped with binaural directionality.

    Pricing

    Currently, Jabra Enhance charges the following prices for premium packages: Enhance Select 200 costs $1,995 per pair, Enhance Select 100 is $1,695 per pair, and Enhance Select 50 is $1,395 per pair. This is a significant saving compared to some industry leaders, which charge double the price. If you need to pay over time, Jabra Enhancer offers 12-, 18-, or 36-month financing options. You can purchase Jabra Enhance devices online without an in-person appointment, and some seniors may enjoy the convenience of ordering hearing aids from the comfort of their home.

    Did You Know?

    Did You Know? Untreated hearing loss can contribute to feelings of isolation. Along with purchasing hearing aids, there are many ways to prevent feelings of loneliness and separation. Visit our guide to preventing social isolation among seniors to learn more.

    Bottom Line

    Jabra Enhance offers simplicity, affordability, and sound streaming. Its three Bluetooth-enabled hearing aids offer affordable prices and discreet rechargeable and battery-powered designs. Jabra Enhance is an ideal option for older adults looking to save money on Bluetooth hearing aids, which allow seamless listening from your mobile device. With a 100-day, money-back guarantee and a three-year warranty with premium packages, there isn’t much to lose when you try Jabra Enhance hearing aids. For a closer look at Jabra Enhance, head to our latest Jabra Enhance hearing aid review.

  • 2. MDHearing

    Overview

    If you’re looking for Bluetooth hearing aids with a long-lasting battery, MDHearing goes the distance. Its BTE Bluetooth model, the VOLT MAX is a powerhouse with a battery life that lasts the entire day. With the multipurpose MDHearing mobile app, wearers can customize hearing aid settings, control the volume, and locate misplaced hearing aids. For individuals with different hearing loss levels in each ear, the VOLT MAX gives you the ability to control each ear’s hearing experience individually.

    The MDHearing VOLT MAX is compatible with Apple and Android devices. You can make wireless adjustments to the VOLT MAX, but you won’t be able to stream sound directly from your devices into your hearing aids. If you’re looking for a Bluetooth hearing aid with all the bells and whistles, including the ability to stream sound from your mobile devices, you’ll want to consider another provider. Be sure to know your hearing loss level before your purchase as these hearing aids are best for those with mild to moderate hearing loss. MDHearing offers a free online hearing test to check your hearing.

    MDHearingAid devices

    MDHearingAid devices

    Ease of use Equipment Service & Response Features & Tech Pricing
    Excellent Above Average Above Average Above Average
    Please scroll to the right for more info.
    Pros
    • Affordable price point
    • Two directional microphones for noise reduction
    • Bluetooth for wireless adjustments
    • Four sound environment settings
    • U.S.-based telehealth support
    • Available without a prescription
    • Lifetime professional support
    • Risk-free 45-day trial and free shipping
    Cons
    • Cannot stream sound directly into hearing aids
    • Only one color available

    Pricing

    Customers can purchase a pair of VOLT MAX hearing aids for $799.99, and the price includes VIP Care and an extended warranty. MDHearing often runs sales, making a pair of hearing aids cost less than a single device. If paying in full isn’t feasible, check out their 12-month financing with interest rates starting at zero percent. Visit our MDHearing pricing page for a closer look at cost and value.

    Savings Alert:

    Savings Alert: Subscribing to MDHearing’s email list can save you up to $300!

    Bottom Line

    The Bluetooth VOLT MAX hearing aids allow wearers to make adjustments conveniently and discreetly via their mobile app. Since the hearing aids are not custom fit and don’t require a visit to an audiologist, we don’t recommend them if you have severe or profound hearing loss. But if you’re new to hearing aids or want a traditional battery-powered hearing aid with a long battery life, MDHearing may be just what you need. Read our hands-on MDHearing review for more details.

  • 3. Eargo

    Overview

    Established in 2010, Eargo offers excellent quality sound and nearly invisible designs. Eargo is the only invisible hearing aid with a Bluetooth option to make adjustments directly from your phone. Eargo’s product line features three rechargeable, completely-in-canal (CIC) and self-fitting OTC models. Because Eargo hearing aids are small and discreet, they don’t have Bluetooth technology built into them. Instead, users benefit from Eargo’s Bluetooth technology in the charging case. Their latest model is Eargo 7, an FDA-approved water-resistant device with a two-year warranty.

    If you want to make adjustments to your Eargo hearing aids via the mobile app, simply place the hearing aids in the charging case. You can easily adjust your hearing aid settings via Bluetooth technology, but, unfortunately, you won’t be able to stream sound directly into your hearing aids. We think this is a fair trade-off for nearly invisible hearing aids. In addition to Bluetooth technology and a discreet design, all of Eargo’s hearing aids offer sound amplification and dynamic feedback reduction. These affordable hearing aids can be purchased online or over the phone, and are best for those with mild to moderate hearing loss.

    Eargo 6 Hero Hearing Aids

    Eargo 6 Hero Hearing Aids

    Ease of use Equipment Service & Response Features & Tech Pricing
    Excellent Excellent Excellent Excellent
    Please scroll to the right for more info.
    Pros
    • Available for purchase online without a prescription
    • Lower price compared to in-office hearing aids
    • 45-day free returns
    • Up to two-year warranty
    • Nearly invisible design
    • Bluetooth for wireless adjustments
    • Rechargeable with up to 16-hour battery life
    • Lifetime telecare from licensed hearing professionals
    Cons
    • Not designed for those with profound hearing loss
    • Cannot stream sound directly into hearing aids

    Pricing

    Unlike many competitors in the hearing aid industry, Eargo is transparent with its pricing. In fact, you can easily find pricing information online. Prices range from $1,650 to $2,950 per pair. Eargo offers financing for 12, 24, or 36 months, so splitting the cost into monthly payments is possible. Eargo is offering discounts on select products. The Eargo 7 has a $360 discount, bringing the price down to $2,590 for the pair.

    Current Deal:

    Current Deal: You can save up to $300 on Eargo hearing aids for a limited time!

    Bottom Line

    Eargo hearing aids take a unique approach to Bluetooth technology. You won’t find Bluetooth built into the devices. Instead, when wearers need to tweak the settings of their Eargo devices, they can tap into Bluetooth tech via Eargo’s charging case and user-friendly smartphone app (available on iOS and Android). The Eargo hearing aid line offers discreet hearing support, Bluetooth capability, and stellar customer service, all at a great price! Plus, it’s a big bonus that you don’t need to get a traditional prescription to purchase Eargo hearing aids. Read our in-depth Eargo review to learn more.

  • 4. Lexie

    Overview

    Lexie was developed by hearX Group, a company that aims to provide affordable access to hearing health care using smart digital solutions. With prices starting at $799 per pair, Lexie Lumen is one of the lowest-priced Bluetooth hearing aids on the market. We’re big fans of this budget-friendly price tag that comes with features like sound environment settings, noise reduction, and dual directional mics. Lexie offers three different hearing aid models, making your choice simple! For $999 or $49 per month, you can upgrade to Lexie B2 powered by Bose, featuring rechargeable batteries and Bluetooth technology.

    The BTE Lumen model is a self-fitting OTC hearing aid that uses Bluetooth technology to allow wearers to adjust their hearing aid via the Lexie mobile app. Currently, you can only stream phone calls for iPhones.

    One standout product component is the Lexie rewards program. This unique, no-cost program makes adjusting to your new hearing aids fun and cost-effective! Each week, you’ll be assigned personalized hearing health goals (like wearing your hearing aids for a specific amount of time). You can earn up to a 5 percent discount on your monthly Lexie membership or choose to redeem points.

    Lexie Lumen Hearing Aid

    Lexie Lumen Hearing Aid

    Ease of use Equipment Service & Response Features & Tech Pricing
    Above Average Excellent Excellent Excellent
    Please scroll to the right for more info.
    Pros
    • Affordable devices
    • Bluetooth for wireless adjustments
    • Directional hearing
    • Adaptive noise reduction
    • Rewards program savings and perks
    • Real-time video and voice assistance
    • 45-day money-back guarantee
    Cons
    • No in-ear models
    • Not intended for individuals with severe or profound hearing loss

    Pricing

    Lexie Lumen made it onto our best cheap hearing aids list for good reason, as it’s one of the most affordable Bluetooth hearing aids we’ve found. Lexie Lumen is priced at $799 per pair. Even Lexie’s most expensive pair only costs $999! Take advantage of Lexie’s 24-month financing to keep your budget in check. Be aware that if you decide to finance, you’ll incur a one-time start-up fee. Keep an eye out for sales as Lexie offers special promotions to save even more.

    Bottom Line

    Cost plays a major role in the 17 million U.S. seniors with hearing loss who don’t use hearing aids. Lexie comes to the rescue with one of the best-value Bluetooth hearing aids on the market. These hearing aids are ideal for older adults with mild to moderate hearing loss in search of hearing aids that can be purchased online at a bargain price.

    FYI:

    FYI: Living on a limited budget or a fixed income? Small savings can go a long way. Read our nine hacks to saving money on a fixed income.

  • 5. Otofonix

    Overview

    Otofonix is a direct to consumer brand with two Bluetooth hearing aids in their product lineup, the Groove and SONA models. Don’t worry if you’re not tech savvy, as Otofonix makes navigating their Bluetooth hearing aids a breeze! Simply download the Otofonix app onto a smartphone or tablet to get started. This straightforward app with uncomplicated controls is designed for all levels of tech users. If you need a bit of help, you’re in luck, as Otofonix’s support team is available to walk you through the app setup and Bluetooth pairing.

    The Groove and SONA models are Bluetooth-compatible with Apple and Android devices. These hearing aids are app-controlled for wireless adjustments. Once your Otofonix app is set up, you can access Otofonix’s four pre-configured hearing programs and 10 volume levels. It’s also possible to refine your hearing experience by customizing the sound environments based on your hearing loss. Bear in mind, these hearing aid models don’t offer advanced technical features like direct streaming.

    Otofonix Apex Hearing Aids

    Otofonix Apex Hearing Aids

    Ease of use Equipment Service & Response Features & Tech Pricing
    Average Average Average Average
    Please scroll to the right for more info.
    Pros
    • Adaptive noise reduction technology
    • Multiple preconfigured programs and volume levels
    • Lifetime free phone support
    • Bluetooth for wireless adjustments
    • Rechargeable and battery-powered options
    • U.S.-based company
    • 45-day return policy
    • Affordable hearing aids
    Cons
    • Only BTE models available
    • Cannot stream sound directly into hearing aids

    Pricing

    The Otofonix Bluetooth models must be purchased in pairs. SONA is priced at $1,490 per pair, and the Groove comes in at $1,590 per pair. Otofonix often runs sales, with discounts up to 74 percent off, so be on the lookout for deals. Check out our Otofonix pricing page for a cost breakdown. Otofionixi runs regular discounts on its products. Right now, you can score 50 percent off the Helix.

    Bottom Line

    Setup and use is simple with these easy-to-use Bluetooth hearing aids! With 24/7 support, help is just a phone call away. You’ll also find the Otofonix website jam-packed with instructional videos and FAQs. These hearing aids are best for older adults with mild to moderate hearing loss. To learn more about how Otofonix compares to other Bluetooth hearing aids, check out this year’s Otofonix review.

    FYI:

    FYI: Check out our tips and tricks to putting in and removing your hearing aids.

  • 6. Widex

    Overview

    Widex has played an integral role in the hearing care community for 65 years. Their cutting-edge technology, known as PureSound, enables lightning-fast sound processing. The result is crystal clear, natural sound. It’s easy to understand why musicians favor Widex! Packed with sound learning technology, zero-delay processing, and direct Bluetooth streaming, the Widex Moment model stands out among Widex’s broad range of hearing aids.

    Widex was one of the first manufacturers to create Made for iPhone hearing aids. Apple and Android users alike can now stream calls, music, and video directly to their hearing aids, with no accessories needed. The complementing Moment app allows full control of hearing aids via a smartphone or tablet. App users can easily personalize their listening experiences and create custom programs for different sound environments.

    Widex hearing aids

    Widex hearing aids

    Ease of use Equipment Service & Response Features & Tech Pricing
    Average Average Average Average
    Please scroll to the right for more info.
    Pros
    • PureSound technology with zero delay
    • SoundSense AI learning
    • TruAcoustics feature for a highly customized sound
    • Bluetooth for wireless adjustments and direct streaming
    • Water-resistant
    • Discreet rechargeable models
    • Free online hearing test
    Cons
    • Cannot purchase Widex hearing aids directly from the website
    • Remote care must be obtained from your provider

    Pricing

    Widex doesn’t give pricing information on their Bluetooth hearing aids online. Visit your local hearing center to speak with an audiologist about the cost and other Bluetooth hearing aid options that may best suit your lifestyle and needs.

    Bottom Line

    Widex is applauded for carrying Bluetooth hearing aids with exemplary sound quality. The PureSound technology delivers clear, undistorted sound, perfect for enjoying music, conversation, and more. Tech-savvy iPhone and Android users will enjoy the flexibility in customization. iPhone users can especially take advantage of the brand’s Made for iPhone Bluetooth hearing aids. As far as customer service goes, Widex provides device support over the phone, chat, and remote care. Visit our Widex review to learn more about this provider.

    Quick Tip:

    Quick Tip: Wondering if hearing aids are worth the high cost? We share everything you need to know about hearing aid costs and what’s included in our hearing aid pricing breakdown.

  • 7. Signia

    Overview

    Signia’s Bluetooth hearing aid selection is impressive. You’ll have plenty of models to choose from, including the Styletto Connect, Active, Pure, Motion X, and Styletto X. These powerful hearing aids fuse Bluetooth-connectivity and rechargeability into one. Signia’s Augmented Xperience (AX) platform features direct Bluetooth streaming (Apple and Android), immersive soundscape, and automatic situation detection.

    Signia also offers Bluetooth accessories to enhance your listening experience. The StreamLine Mic features hands-free calls, stereo-quality streaming, and a remote microphone. The Streamline TV streams Dolby Digital quality audio from your television directly into your hearing aids. If you’re looking for a range of hearing aid and accessory options, without a doubt, this provider has you covered!

    Signia Styletto X

    Signia Styletto X

    Ease of use Equipment Service & Response Features & Tech Pricing
    Above Average Excellent Above Average Excellent
    Please scroll to the right for more info.
    Pros
    • Wide range of models and colors to select from
    • Great for people with all levels of hearing loss
    • High-tech features and state-of-the-art sound
    • Own Voice Processing (OVP)
    • Signia TeleCare app connects directly to hearing care professionals
    • Bluetooth for wireless adjustments and direct streaming
    • Signia app with virtual assistant and face mask mode
    • Signia hearing aids have built-in Notch Therapy for those with tinnitus
    Cons
    • Higher cost versus online hearing aids
    • Relies heavily on the website to provide information, which may not be ideal for those who are not tech savvy

    Pricing

    Depending on where you shop and buy its Bluetooth hearing aids, and the features and design you choose, Signia’s pricing will vary greatly. To find out whether any of Signia’s Bluetooth hearing aids fit within your budget, go to your local hearing aid center and speak with a professional.

    Bottom Line

    The company has a comprehensive line of products and continues to push improved devices to serve people with hearing loss. If you’re looking for a Bluetooth hearing aid that offers other essential features like drowning out background noise or helping the user focus on speakers in conversations, then Signia may be a promising choice to consider. The easy-to-use Signia app gives you the power to customize your preferences, connect with remote care, and improve your overall hearing experience. Head to our latest Signia review for a closer look.

    Quick Tip:

    Quick Tip: Our hearing aid accessories buying guide walks you through the types of accessories and the valuable benefits of each device.

  • 8. Phonak

    Overview

    Phonak hearing aids take Bluetooth connectivity to the next level and make it oh-so-easy to use! The Audeo Lumity and the Naida models are Bluetooth BTE hearing aids that can treat mild to profound hearing loss. That means if your hearing loss changes, you may not have to buy new hearing aids; you may just need to get an adjustment. Both models can connect directly to either your iOS or Android smartphone or other Bluetooth-enabled devices like tablets, speakers, or TVs.

    Additionally, a motion sensor in the Phonak Audeo Lumity and Naida allows pivoting between Bluetooth devices. Let’s say you’re in the kitchen cooking up a delicious breakfast and listening to your favorite music streaming into your hearing aids from your smart speaker. Then, a phone call comes in from your son. You can tap your hearing aid to connect and answer the call on your smartphone. With Phonak’s tap control feature, you can easily accept and end phone calls, play and pause music, and activate the voice assistant.

    Phonak hearing aids

    Phonak hearing aids

    Ease of use Equipment Service & Response Features & Tech Pricing
    Above Average Average Above Average Above Average
    Please scroll to the right for more info.
    Pros
    • Personalized dynamic noise cancellation
    • Motion sensor hearing feature
    • Wide range models to choose from
    • Bluetooth for wireless adjustments and direct streaming
    • Built-in microphone for hands-free calling
    • Speech enhancer
    • Remote hearing aid adjustments
    Cons
    • Can only be bought through a local provider
    • No pricing information online

    Pricing

    The cost of Phonak’s Bluetooth hearing aids differs depending on where you shop. Want to find out if Phonak’s Bluetooth devices are within your budget? Consult your local hearing care professional for additional information.

    Bottom Line

    Whether you use an iPhone or Android mobile device, Phonak offers a solid hearing aid solution for those seeking Bluetooth capabilities. The Audeo Lumity and Naida family of products supply a truly hands-free solution. The motion sensor and built-in microphone are unique features that make switching between multiple Bluetooth devices a breeze. To learn more about this provider, read our Phonak review.

  • 9. Starkey

    Overview

    According to the Centers for Disease Control, regular physical activity is one of the most critical things seniors can do for their health.1 Starkey’s Bluetooth-enabled hearing aids are a one-stop shop for hearing, brain, and body health. Powered with artificial intelligence, the Livio AI’s Bluetooth hearing aids pair with Starkey’s intuitive Thrive app. The app can track exercise activities (like the number of steps taken) and engagement activities (like the time spent actively listening). Starkey hearing aids are compatible with most Apple and Android devices and feature direct streaming and wireless adjustments.

    Another standout Starkey hearing aid feature is the built-in fall detection. Livio AI hearing aids have unique 3D sensors that can detect when a wearer falls. An alert notification is automatically sent straight to the designated caregiver’s smartphone if their loved one experiences a fall. Starkey’s Livio hearing aids are top of the line when it comes to technology and even have a “mask mode.” Wearers can turn on this mode via their mobile phone to make it easier to hear people wearing masks. Starkey’s AI hearing aids can also perform language translation in real time, which is a very unique and useful feature.

    Did You Know?

    Did You Know? Starkey’s newest model, Genesis AI, helps make advanced personalized hearing adjustments for a better hearing experience. Some of the features include a discreet, compact design and rechargeable batteries.

    Starkey Hearing Aids

    Starkey Hearing Aids

    Ease of use Equipment Service & Response Features & Tech Pricing
    Above Average Excellent Above Average Excellent
    Please scroll to the right for more info.
    Pros
    • Crisp sound without interference
    • Built-in fall detection and alerts with some models
    • Activity and hearing performance tracking
    • Bluetooth for wireless adjustments and direct streaming
    • TeleHear remote support
    • 30-day, money-back guarantee
    • U.S.-based company
    Cons
    • Warranty details not available on website
    • Must visit in-person to purchase hearing aids

    Pricing

    Starkey does not sell their Bluetooth hearing aids directly to consumers online, so you won’t find Starkey prices listed on their website. The best way to purchase Starkey’s devices is to visit the closest distributor or audiology center to inquire about pricing, product details, and possible financing plans.

    Bottom Line

    Hailing from an extensive history of innovation and success in the hearing aid industry, Starkey continues to enhance hearing experiences with a wide variety of high-tech hearing aid solutions. Enjoy the sounds of the world clearly with Starkey’s Bluetooth hearing aids. The added health and wellness tracking and fall detection make Starkey hearing aids the best in class. They’re like a medical alert system, activity tracker, and hearing aid all rolled into one! Check out our Starkey review to learn more.

Bluetooth Streaming vs. Wireless Bluetooth Adjustments

There are two different types of Bluetooth features for hearing aids: streaming and wireless adjustments. Some hearing aids only have one or the other, while some may have both. We’ll dive into the differences between these two features below.

Bluetooth wireless hearing aid adjustments

All Bluetooth hearing aids pair with an app you load onto a smartphone or tablet. For example, Phonak Bluetooth hearing aids pair with the myPhonak app. Once the hearing aid is paired, you can make wireless adjustments from your connected device. Wireless adjustments include options like volume control, environmental setting selection, remote care, and tinnitus relief soundscapes. Keep in mind each brand creates its own app, so the features may vary. Wireless adjustments are an excellent solution for individuals with low vision or unsteady hands since there’s no need to worry about fiddling with tiny buttons on the hearing aid. Due to the size and lack of manual control features, wireless adjustments are a must for invisible hearing aids, like completely-in-canal and invisible-in-canal hearing aids.

From the Pros:

From the Pros: Our comprehensive hearing aid buyer’s guide covers the types of hearing aids, important features to consider, and how to snag the best deal.

Bluetooth streaming

The Bluetooth streaming feature takes your hearing aids and their capabilities to the next level. However, unlike Bluetooth wireless adjustments, Bluetooth streaming is at the manufacturer’s discretion. You’ll find direct Bluetooth streaming on brands such as Jabra Enhance, Phonak, and Starkey. Depending on the brand and model chosen, features may include the ability to stream content like phone calls, music, audiobooks, and television through your hearing aids. This high-tech component is convenient and improves an individual’s overall hearing experience. That’s a win-win for us! This streaming feature is fantastic for people who use several Bluetooth-enabled devices.

If you’re unsure how a particular feature works, ask a hearing support team member to walk you through it. Be patient with yourself; it takes time to get used to a new device.

Benefits of Investing in Bluetooth Hearing Aids

Bluetooth is today’s cutting-edge technology — not only for hearing aids but for modern-day devices like smartphones, smartwatches, televisions, audio players, and even Bluetooth medical alert devices. Bluetooth has elevated the hearing aid industry by providing a more seamless and convenient user experience. Stay connected with your friends and family while enjoying music or your favorite TV shows without the need to ever remove your hearing aids.

Streaming via Bluetooth has many perks. Here are just a few:

Personalized listening experience

Bluetooth hearing aids allow you to enjoy music and your favorite shows. There is no need to replace hearing aids with a set of wireless earbuds — Bluetooth hearing aids with streaming features can act as both! Bluetooth hearing aids can also be personalized to suit the wearer’s lifestyle and needs. For example, volume can be easily controlled by the streamer or the hearing aids, depending on the manufacturer’s design. Over time, settings can be honed to perfectly match the user’s preferences.

Standard protocol

Since Bluetooth is an electronics industry standard protocol, the functionality is pretty uniform from one device to another. Bluetooth connection is always secure with no interference. When shopping for a Bluetooth hearing aid, it’s good to also consider other features that may be important to you, such as tinnitus masking, feedback cancellation, background noise reduction, and speech enhancement, depending on your needs.

Multiple connections

Bluetooth hearing aids can be connected to various devices so that you can conveniently switch between them as needed. For example, if you are watching a movie on your laptop, you can have the hearing aids connected to that device. If you receive an incoming phone call in the middle of the movie, you can pause the audio from your laptop and connect the hearing aids to your smartphone to accept the call. The specific limitations and processes for this differ by manufacturer and model. If this kind of listening is important to you, be sure to ask your hearing care professional to demonstrate how this works and whether or not the hearing aids in question are compatible with your devices.

Remote control

If you choose a Bluetooth hearing aid that is small or invisible, it may be hard to control settings such as volume on the device itself. The great news is that these days, it’s pretty common for hearing aids to come equipped for you to adjust controls remotely from the streamer. Typically, you do this through a mobile app on your smartphone or tablet. This wireless technology makes adjusting your hearing aids quick and discreet.

Final Thoughts on Bluetooth Hearing Aids for Seniors

Much of today’s technology offers Bluetooth connectivity, so it’s a no-brainer to invest in Bluetooth hearing aids if you regularly use other devices like a smartphone or tablet. If you are still unsure which Bluetooth hearing aid is best for you and your lifestyle after exploring options online, reach out to an audiologist or hearing professional nearby to get additional feedback and guidance. For more information on other hearing aid options, you can also check out our list of the best hearing aids for seniors in 2023.

Whether you’re just beginning your hearing aid journey or shopping for replacement devices, it’s essential to understand which types of hearing aids are the ideal match for your hearing health needs. In the video below, our Editor-in-Chief, Jeff Hoyt, speaks with Brad Ingrao, Au.D. on how to make an informed hearing aid choice.

Take Our Free Online Hearing Test

Wondering if you have hearing loss?
Grab your headphones and get an evaluation in minutes.

Written By

Dr. Ruth Reisman

Audiologist

Ruth Reisman, AuD MBA, is a licensed audiologist and hearing aid dispenser in New York state and is certified by the American Speech and Hearing Association. After serving as an audiologist in the New York downstate hospital system, Dr. Reisman led the… Learn More About Dr. Ruth Reisman

Citations
  1. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. (2022, Apr 6). How much physical activity do older adults need?