What is Auracast?

AuracastTM broadcast audio is an exciting new way to stay connected to crystal-clear sound – at home or on the go! It’s part of our mission to help you hear your healthiest and happiest every day. Here’s the scoop on this new technology:

Think of it as the next generation of Bluetooth® audio – clearer and more flexible for:

  • Hearing aid users
  • Cochlear implant users
  • Anyone with compatible earbuds or headphones

Auracast is a broadcast audio capability within Bluetooth LE Audio that allows a single audio source to transmit sound to an unlimited number of compatible devices using Auracast technology defined by the Bluetooth Special Interest Group.

How It Works

  • A venue device (TV, PA system, or transmitter) broadcasts audio
  • Users select the broadcast on their phone or hearing device
  • Sound streams directly to hearing aids, earbuds, or headphones
  • Patients can walk into an Auracast venue and connect instantly with no manufacturer updates required

Why It Matters

  • Accessibility : Clear audio for people with hearing loss
  • Scalability : Unlimited listeners can join the same broadcast
  • Flexibility : Multiple language channels or assistive streams
  • Simplicity : No special receivers required—use personal devices

Example Uses

  • Theaters and performing arts venues
  • Airports and transit announcements
  • Conference rooms and classrooms
  • TVs in public spaces (bars, gyms, waiting rooms)

How do I get AuracastTM?

You must have a compatible device to access an Auracast broadcast. Since this is new technology, it is not available everywhere. If you travel outside of the U.S., you may notice it has been widely adopted in other countries.

The distinction between “Auracast-enabled” and “Auracast-ready” is primarily about current functional capability vs. potential capability after an update within the Auracast ecosystem, which is part of Bluetooth LE Audio defined by the Bluetooth Special Interest Group.

Auracast-Enabled

 A device that is already capable of transmitting or receiving Auracast broadcasts without requiring additional firmware or software updates.

  • Supports the full Auracast broadcast audio profile.
  • Can join or transmit broadcast audio streams immediately.
  • Certified and marketed as compatible with public Auracast deployments (airports, theaters, TVs, etc.).
  • Typically labeled “Auracast enabled” or “Auracast supported.”

Examples

  • Newer hearing aids with native broadcast audio reception.
  • Smartphones that can scan and connect to Auracast streams.
  • TVs or transmitters actively broadcasting Auracast.

Auracast-Ready

A device that has hardware capable of supporting Auracast, but the feature is not yet activated.

  • Contains the necessary Bluetooth LE Audio chipset.
  • Requires future firmware/software updates to enable Auracast functionality.
  • May initially support basic LE Audio features only.
  • Marketing language often says “Auracast ready,” “Auracast capable,” or “future support planned.”

Examples

  • Smartphones waiting for an OS update.
  • Hearing aids whose chipset supports Auracast but firmware is pending.
  • Consumer earbuds awaiting manufacturer activation.

Patients may assume compatibility but cannot yet connect to broadcast streams until updates are released.

It is important to know the difference between the labeling on your device:

  • Auracast Enabled : Works today
  • Auracast Ready : Hardware capable; feature coming via update

***We will try to keep this list updated but please note this technology is changing rapidly. You may notice an update on your hearing aid app before we are able to update our website!

About Us

The Hearing Center at Eye Consultants of Atlanta has been restoring the richness of sound for patients for over 7 years.

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