Bluetooth Hearing Aids: What They Do and How to Choose ⋆ Merit Hearing

Clinically reviewed by Dr. Courtney Thayer, AuD. Last reviewed July 15, 2026.

Bluetooth hearing aids can send audio from a compatible phone, tablet, television accessory, or other device directly to your hearing aids. Depending on the model and connected device, you may be able to stream calls and media, adjust settings in an app, or use the hearing aids like wireless earbuds.

The most important word is compatible. A hearing aid marketed as “Bluetooth” will not necessarily support every phone, computer, television, or Bluetooth feature.

What can Bluetooth hearing aids do?

Features vary, but common uses include:

streaming phone calls to one or both hearing aids;
listening to music, podcasts, videos, or navigation prompts;
adjusting volume and listening programs through an app;
locating a misplaced hearing aid through its companion app;
connecting to a television through a compatible accessory;
using a remote microphone in meetings or noisy environments.

Some functions are direct, while others require a manufacturer accessory. Confirm the exact setup before purchase if a feature is important to you.

Do Bluetooth hearing aids work with iPhone and Android phones?

Many do, but support varies by hearing aid model, phone model, operating-system version, and manufacturer app. A phone that can run the app may not support direct audio streaming, and a device that streams calls may handle call microphones differently.

Before choosing a hearing aid, check the manufacturer's current compatibility list for the exact phone model and operating system. If possible, pair and test the hearing aids with your phone during the trial period.

Bluetooth Classic, LE Audio, and Auracast

Bluetooth audio continues to evolve. Bluetooth LE Audio is a newer generation of Bluetooth audio designed to improve audio performance and support hearing aids while using low-energy technology. It also introduces Auracast broadcast audio.

Auracast allows a compatible source to broadcast audio to compatible nearby receivers. In the future, this can make it easier for people using compatible hearing aids, earbuds, or cochlear implants to receive audio in public venues. Availability depends on both the venue and the receiving device, so do not assume that every new hearing aid or public space supports it.

Will Bluetooth drain hearing aid batteries?

Wireless streaming uses power. The real-world effect depends on how long you stream, the hearing aid, its battery size, and whether it is rechargeable. If you stream for several hours a day, ask how much operating time the manufacturer expects under that use pattern—not only under typical hearing aid use.

Are Bluetooth hearing aids harder to use?

They do not have to be. The best choice depends on your comfort with phones and apps, your dexterity, and which features you will actually use. An audiologist can help with pairing, notifications, app permissions, and troubleshooting.

Questions to ask before choosing Bluetooth hearing aids

Bring your phone to the appointment and ask:

Does this exact hearing aid model stream directly from my exact phone?
Will calls stream to both ears, and where is my voice picked up?
Which features require an accessory or paid app?
Can it connect to my television, computer, tablet, or car?
Does it support LE Audio or Auracast, and what can I use those features with today?
How does frequent streaming affect battery life?
Can the clinic help me reconnect after a phone or operating-system update?

How Merit Hearing helps

Merit Hearing works with major hearing aid manufacturers and publishes prices by brand and technology level. An audiologist can consider your hearing results, listening environments, phone, desired features, and budget before recommending options.

See Merit Hearing's hearing aid prices or book a hearing evaluation online.

Local Bluetooth setup and follow-up support

Bluetooth performance depends on the exact hearing aid, phone, software, and accessories—not the city where you bought it. Local follow-up still matters when a phone update breaks a connection, a new device must be paired, or television and remote-microphone accessories need setup. Merit Hearing provides local audiology care in Iowa, Nebraska, Missouri, and Florida. Use the locations directory to contact the clinic nearest you and ask whether it supports your hearing aid brand and device combination.

We can help connect most Bluetooth-compatible hearing aids to your phones and tablets in our offices. Our team stays up to date on connection requirements across all major hearing aid manufacturers.

Frequently asked questions

Can Bluetooth hearing aids connect to a smart TV?

Sometimes. Many televisions require a manufacturer-specific TV accessory even when the television itself has Bluetooth. Verify the television and hearing aid setup before purchase.

Can I connect hearing aids to more than one device?

Many models remember multiple devices, but simultaneous connections and switching behavior vary. Ask for a demonstration using the devices you use most. If you are connected to multiple devices but experience connectivity problems, try turning Bluetooth off on the device you are not using at that moment.

Are Bluetooth hearing aids safe?

Bluetooth hearing aids are regulated medical devices when sold as hearing aids. Safe listening still depends on appropriate fitting and volume. Tell your audiologist about discomfort, sound intolerance, or sudden changes in hearing.

Do all rechargeable hearing aids have Bluetooth?

No. Rechargeability and wireless connectivity are separate features.

Sources

Compatibility and features can change with hardware, software, and manufacturer updates. Verify the exact hearing aid, phone, operating system, and accessory combination before purchase.