Today’s hearing aids are more than just sound amplifiers; they are powerful, smart devices designed to integrate seamlessly into your daily life. Thanks to Bluetooth and wireless connectivity, many modern hearing aids can connect directly with your smartphone. Even better, a variety of apps are available to help you customize, control, and enhance your hearing experience.
Whether you want to fine-tune sound settings, stream music, locate lost devices, or access remote support, there is likely an app designed for your hearing aids. Here’s a look at some of the top ways smartphone apps can elevate your hearing experience.
1. Personalize Your Sound Settings
Most hearing aid brands offer companion apps that allow you to adjust:
– Volume levels
– Treble and bass
– Noise reduction and background focus
– Microphone directionality
These settings can often be adjusted in real time based on your environment—whether you are in a quiet room, a noisy restaurant, or outdoors.
Examples:
– myPhonak
– Oticon Companion
– ReSound Smart 3D
– Starkey Thrive
– Signia App
2. Stream Audio Directly to Your Hearing Aids
Many apps enable you to stream music, podcasts, audiobooks, and even phone calls directly to your hearing aids, turning them into discreet wireless earbuds. Some apps also support streaming from video calls or navigation apps, helping you stay connected and informed.
Features to Look For:
– One-touch call answering
– Audio mixing (streamed audio plus ambient sound)
– Compatibility with iPhone or Android
3. Locate Lost Hearing Aids
Misplaced your hearing aids? Some apps include a built-in “Find My Hearing Aids” function, which uses GPS or Bluetooth to help you locate them, much like finding a lost phone or smartwatch.
Look For:
– Last known location tracking
– Proximity indicators (signal strength bars)
– Sound alerts (if supported by the devices)
4. Access Remote Support From Your Audiologist
If your hearing aids need adjustments but you can’t visit the clinic, many apps now offer remote programming or telehealth sessions. Your audiologist can modify your settings remotely, and you can discuss any concerns via video or chat within the app.
This is Great For:
– Busy schedules
– Limited mobility
– Minor adjustments that don’t require an in-person visit
5. Monitor Hearing Aid Health and Usage
Some apps provide insights into how long you’ve worn your hearing aids, battery/charging status, and even environmental noise exposure. Others offer reminders for cleaning or maintenance.
Examples of Tracking Features:
– Daily wear time
– Step count or activity tracking
– Hearing environment breakdowns (quiet vs. noisy vs. conversation)
6. Extra Features for a Smarter Lifestyle
Some hearing aid apps offer additional helpful features, such as:
– Fall detection alerts
– Transcription and live captioning
– Voice assistant integration (like Siri or Google Assistant)
– Language translation support
How to Get Started
1. Check your hearing aid brand and model to see which app is compatible.
2. Download the app from the App Store (iPhone) or Google Play (Android).
3. Pair your hearing aids using Bluetooth.
4. Ask your audiologist for assistance with setting up and customizing your app.
Take Control of Your Hearing Experience
Smartphone apps make it easier than ever to gain full control of your hearing aids and hearing health. Whether you’re managing settings, streaming audio, or getting professional support, these apps help you stay connected, confident, and in control.
Need help setting up your hearing aid app? Contact our office; we are happy to guide you through the process.
Hello, I am Sarah! I have been an Audiologist since 2019 when I received my doctorate degree from A.T. Still University in Arizona and undergraduate degree from the University of Minnesota. I have a passion to help people with their hearing healthcare. Coming from a family with hearing impaired individuals, I know the importance for personalized hearing care and best Audiology practices. Raised in small town Minnesota, I enjoy my time being outside, on the golf course or on the lake up north. I have 2 young children who keep me on my toes and always laughing.
My name is Brooke, and I have been working at SoundGate Hearing since July of 2023. I love being a part of a team that puts the customers first. Being able to help others has always been a passion of mine. When I am not working, I love spending time with my family and traveling.
I have worked in a variety of roles in the hearing industry since graduating from Minnesota State University-Moorhead with a Bachelor of Science degree in Communications. I have worked at SoundGate Hearing since 2013 and have substantial experience with both the technical and business sides of the industry. I understand the fundamental need to provide strong support for our patients. I spend my free time away from the office with my active family. I enjoy a wide variety of activities, including travel, hiking, camping, fishing, and all things outdoors. I am a passionate hockey and soccer parent and fan.
Hello, I am Kara, and I am so excited to continue serving the Buffalo area and providing hearing care at SoundGate Hearing. I grew up in SW, MN, in a small town, and I love the sense of community that small towns offer. I have worked at SoundGate since 2019 and love the personalized care this clinic provides patients. In my free time, I enjoy reading, staying active, spending time outdoors, and soaking up as much lake time as I can in our short MN summers.
Welcome! I am Dr. Sarah Binfet and I have been a Doctor of Audiology since 2006. I proudly served Veterans at the Minneapolis VA for nearly 9 years. I established Blaine Hearing Center in 2013 in conjunction with my husband's optometric practice. It has been a wonderful partnership and enjoyable to see each other at work! In 2015, I had the opportunity to grow my practice when I purchased SoundGate Hearing from my mentor, Dr. Wendy Davis. I genuinely love what I do and feel that helping people hear is essential to their quality of life. I believe in creating a welcoming and supportive environment in which the patient and their families can be educated on their hearing loss, hearing aid options, and how to have the best success with their hearing aids. At SoundGate, we deeply care about our patients and their outcomes. We want everyone to genuinely enjoy their hearing aids and the benefits they bring. I am committed to offering my patients the most up to date digital hearing aid technology, which is why I carry a full line of manufacturers. There is no one right hearing aid for everyone. It is my job to help my patients navigate the complex works of hearing aids and decide on which products best meet their needs, goals and budget. I have discovered the benefit of giving patients the opportunity to trial hearing aids out of the office. A hearing aid trial is most helpful in navigating the complex journey of better hearing. A Minnesotan through and through, I was raised in Eden Prairie, MN, received my undergraduate degree from the University of St. Thomas and my Doctor of Audiology degree from the University of Minnesota. When not at work, you will find me cooking, hitting up the newest restaurants and fitting in as much yoga as possible. During the weekend, you will find my husband Rodney and me with our three kids, Evelyn, Jake and Sam, loving the outdoors at our family cabin on Leech Lake. I look forward to meeting you.
My name is Kathy, and I am a Hearing Instrument Specialist (HIS) with SoundGate Hearing. I have been in hearing health for 18 years. I am passionate about helping people live their best lives with the best hearing possible. Getting to know patients is a joy for me. My position is a lot like a Nurse Practitioner’s. I am licensed to perform many services to help you while I work with and for the Audiologists for your best care. In my spare time, you will find my husband and I enjoying our three busy grandsons, reading with my book club, traveling, and spending time with friends and family. I am so glad to be part of the SoundGate Hearing team.