Can Cochlear Implants Receive Auracast Broadcasts?

The next generation of assistive listening technology is here. Auracast lets hearing device users tune into everything from airport announcements to museum tours. And with a little help from some extra devices, you can tune in to Auracast^™ broadcasts with your RONDO 3 or SONNET series audio processor. Read on to learn how.

What Is Auracast?

You may be familiar with hearing loops and FM systems. They are often used in public places to broadcast announcements and other audio. One source of audio can be received by many people at once. Auracast is like an upgraded version of these systems. Auracast is an extension of Bluetooth® LE Audio, an energy-efficient, high-quality audio transmission that ensures the sound you receive is clearer and more stable.

MFI and ASHA are still the most commonly used protocols for streaming to hearing aids. Auracast is still in the early stages of introduction and not yet available everywhere. But these broadcasts will become more common at airports, conferences, in lecture halls, and in many other places where many people need to tune in to one important message.

How Do Auracast Transmitters and Receivers Work?

Auracast transmitters send out a message. They communicate with Auracast receivers, which—as the name suggests—receive these messages. There are also Auracast transceivers, which can work as both a transmitter and a receiver.

Transmitters and receivers in an Auracast system communicate with each other via a Bluetooth protocol called BLE audio.

Using AudioLink Devices to Receive Auracast Broadcasts

There are a variety of non-MED-EL devices you can connect to your AudioLink or AudioLink XT so it can receive Auracast broadcasts. These Auracast devices are compatible with both generations of AudioLink, so it’s possible for SONNET, SONNET 2, SONNET 3, and RONDO 3 users to receive Auracast broadcasts.

To connect a receiver to an AudioLink device, you will need an audio cable and an audio cable adapter. They are both included in the AudioLink Cable Kit.

Available Auracast Receivers

There are many Auracast receivers available, but our favorite is the MoerDuo transceiver from MoerLab. This transceiver has an app with several additional features. In the app, you can select which broadcast you would like to tune in to. And, if a broadcast is encrypted, you can enter the password for the broadcast in the app so you can listen in.

Want to learn more about streaming with MED-EL’s hearing solutions? Read all about SONNET 3, our latest cochlear implant processor with built-in direct streaming. Or take a look at our ultimate guide to streaming for the best ways to stream with RONDO 3, SAMBA 2, and more.

*Auracast report from the Royal National Institute for Deaf People