The summary of ‘BEST Bluetooth Hearing Aids of 2024’

00:00:00

In this part of the video, Dr. Cliff Olsson discusses his top picks for the best Bluetooth hearing aids in 2024. He explains his annual series of videos that offer a short list of recommended hearing aids for first-time users or those looking to upgrade their technology. This particular segment focuses on Bluetooth hearing aids that allow users to stream audio directly to their devices. The first hearing aid mentioned is the ReSound Nexia, noted for its unique new feature called LE Audio Bluetooth, which became available at the end of 2023. Dr. Olsson provides background on the evolution of Bluetooth technology in hearing aids, outlining previous versions like Bluetooth Low Energy, Bluetooth Classic, and ASHA Bluetooth, and highlights LE Audio as a significant advancement spearheaded by the hearing aid industry.

00:03:00

In this segment, the video discusses the revolutionary aspects of LE Audio Bluetooth and its new LC3 codec. The LC3 codec enhances streaming quality at lower bit rates, which improves battery life while maintaining audio quality. LE Audio Bluetooth supports audio sharing between devices, enabling multiple users to stream the same audio source, such as a movie on a flight. Additionally, LE Audio Bluetooth with a feature called Auracast will replace telecoils in hearing aids, allowing users to directly stream audio in public venues like theaters and airports. This advancement enhances accessibility for users with hearing aids and other Bluetooth-enabled devices. The ReSound Nexia hearing aids are the first to utilize this new Bluetooth technology, though it’s not yet widely available in other devices. For now, these hearing aids use Bluetooth Low Energy for Apple devices and the ASHA Bluetooth protocol for Android devices.

00:06:00

In this segment of the video, the speaker explains that tablets cannot directly connect to laptops or desktops, requiring a ReSound accessory instead. For Made for iPhone hearing aids, it’s recommended to stick with Apple devices, which allows for 2-way audio streaming with compatible iPhones, enabling users to hear and speak during calls through the hearing aids. The chargeable micro version offers a tap control feature to answer calls. Customizing Bluetooth audio in the programming software is limited; however, the ReSound Nexia hearing aids connect to the ReSound Smart 3D app, allowing users to switch programs, activate features, and adjust volume levels. The app supports a three-band equalizer and directional microphone focus, with an option for remote programming sessions via the ReSound Assist feature. Nexia hearing aids are also compatible with the Apple Watch for convenient adjustments. The speaker stresses the importance of professional fitting and programming and suggests visiting hearingup.com to find vetted hearing care professionals who follow best practices.

00:09:00

In this part of the video, the speaker discusses the Signia Pure Charge and Go hearing aid, which is listed among the best Bluetooth hearing aids of 2024. The key features highlighted include LE audio Bluetooth compatibility through a future firmware update, making it future-proof. It’s designed primarily for iPhone users but can also be used with Android. For streaming from laptops or desktops, a streamlined mic is required. The device offers program control and volume adjustments via the Signia app, which also tracks well-being metrics such as steps and conversation engagement. Users can adjust directional microphone settings and streaming preferences. The Signia app also includes an assistant for 24/7 AI support and offers Telecare for remote programming sessions. However, it currently lacks compatibility with the Apple Watch. The Signia Pure Charge and Go is promoted as a robust option for 2024.

00:12:00

In this part of the video, the speaker emphasizes the unbiased nature of their hearing aid reviews and critiques sponsored rankings with subpar products. The third hearing aid on their list of best Bluetooth hearing aids for 2024 is the Phonak Audeo Lumity. This hearing aid stands out for its use of Bluetooth Classic, making it highly connectable with a wide range of devices including Apple, Android, computers, and more. It can be paired with up to eight devices simultaneously, with two connections active at once, facilitating seamless switching between them. The Phonak Audeo Lumity also features hands-free calling, allowing users to answer calls by double-tapping or pressing a button, even if the phone is across the room. However, in noisy environments, the hearing aid’s microphones may pick up background noise, affecting call quality. Additionally, the programming customization with Autosense OS 5.0 software is highlighted as a significant advantage.

00:15:00

In this segment of the video, the discussion revolves around the customization features of Lumity hearing aids. These hearing aids can differentiate between various types of media (speech, music) and adjust their settings automatically using AutoSense OS 5.0. Users can stream audio from multiple devices, such as smartphones, laptops, tablets, and TV connectors, with individualized programming options for media and phone calls set by a hearing care professional.

The segment highlights the extensive customization possibilities, including controlling digital features to balance ambient sound during streaming. For enhanced sound quality, it recommends using custom earmolds or active vent receivers.

Additionally, the video addresses the use of Bluetooth Low Energy to connect with the MyPhonak app, which offers a choice between instant connectivity and better battery life. The app, which has improved significantly since its release in 2018, allows users to switch programs, adjust volume, mute devices, and fine-tune various settings, including a three-band equalizer, noise reduction, and microphone pickup range. Users can also save their configurations as favorite programs and manage wireless accessories like partner microphones, TV connectors, and Roger microphones.

00:18:00

In this segment, the video discusses the advanced audio settings and features of Phonak Lumity and Odon Reel hearing aids. The Roger microphone can be adjusted using the MyRogerMic app, and Roger On version 2 allows for two-way audio streaming, beneficial for Zoom communication. The MyPhone app enables remote programming with hearing care professionals.

Phonak Lumity’s connectivity with an Apple Watch is limited despite their wide Bluetooth compatibility with other devices. The video emphasizes that the price of hearing aids varies based on technology, location, service quality, and support staff availability.

Odon Reel hearing aids are highlighted as the fourth best Bluetooth hearing aids of 2024. They connect with Apple devices via Bluetooth Low Energy and with Android using the Asha protocol. A Connect Clip is needed for audio streaming from computers. Notable features include hands-free two-way audio with Apple devices and the ability to switch audio pickup between hearing aids and smartphones in noisy environments. This benefit is exclusive to iPhone users and not available for Android users.

00:21:00

In this part of the video, the speaker discusses the new companion app that replaces the old Odon app, highlighting that the change allows for new features such as a three-band equalizer for streaming audio. This equalizer holds its adjustments unlike the old version. The speaker emphasizes the importance of using proper coupling, such as custom ear molds, to achieve high-quality audio streaming. The companion app also offers a three-band equalizer for live listening environments, a live listen feature for remote microphone use, the ability to check battery life, and a “find my hearing aid” feature. The integration of remote programming into the companion app is noted, eliminating the need for a separate app. Additionally, the Odon real hearing aids are compatible with the Apple Watch, although the phone is still required for full functionality. The speaker praises the Odon real hearing aids for their overall performance and Bluetooth capabilities, recommending them for consideration in 2024. They conclude by summarizing four top Bluetooth hearing aids for 2024: the row Nexia, signia pure charging go I, and phon AO lumity.

00:24:00

In this part of the video, the speaker highlights the importance of Bluetooth technology in modern hearing aids. They discuss the various advancements in Bluetooth-enabled hearing aids, including the Odon reel made for iPhone hearing aids, which offer a new smartphone app for customizing audio streaming. The speaker emphasizes that Bluetooth is now an essential feature and explains that hearing aid manufacturers invest significantly in improving this technology. Additionally, Bluetooth has led to higher adoption and satisfaction rates for hearing aids. The speaker advises seeking out knowledgeable hearing care professionals to troubleshoot potential Bluetooth issues and suggests visiting their website for recommendations. They also mention other videos available for those not interested in Bluetooth features.