Starkey announced that its newest line of hearing aids are now compatible with iPhone and iPad, making it possible for those with hearing loss to have hands-free conversations. With the release of iOS 15 and iPad OS 15 earlier this year, Apple has added support for bidirectional hearing aids, such as Starkey’s Evolv AI hearing aids which include new bidirectional streaming technology. This 2-Way Audio protocol allows the hearing aid microphone to be used for voice pickup during calls. 

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“At Starkey, we are acutely aware of the accessibility challenges patients with hearing loss face every day,” said Starkey President and CEO Brandon Sawalich. “Something that many of us take for granted – talking on the phone – is often a major barrier to communication and connection with others. Starkey’s approach to hearing health, together with Apple’s powerful software updates, removes yet another roadblock for people with hearing loss. This is technology that we know patients have been waiting for, and we’re proud to deliver it to them.” 

Starkey’s Evolv AI hearing aids are an authorized Made for iPhone accessory and have been certified to meet Apple performance standards, according to the company. Evolv AI hearing aids are compatible with iPhone 11, iPhone 11 Pro, iPhone 11 Pro Max, and later releases. You can also use Evolv AI hearing aids with iPad Pro 12.9-inch (5th generation), iPad Pro 11-inch (3rd generation), iPad Air (4th generation), and iPad mini (6th generation). The 2-Way Audio feature will be available on all Evolv AI wireless hearing aids before the end of the year. The feature is made possible through an update to the software on the hearing aid (CIC, Custom R, mRIC, BTE R, Power Plus: 7.5.1.0 and above, RIC 312, RIC R, BTE 13: 6.11.1.0 and above).

About Starkey 

Starkey is a privately held, global hearing technology company headquartered in Eden Prairie, Minnesota. Owned by Bill Austin since 1967, Starkey is known for its innovative design, development, and distribution of comprehensive digital hearing systems. Led today by President and CEO Brandon Sawalich, Starkey has more than 5,000 employees, operates 28 facilities, and does business in more than 100 markets worldwide. Learn more at starkey.com. 

Source: Starkey