What is Auracast (Assistive Listening)?
- 17 hours ago
- 3 min read
Auracast is the newest generation of assistive listening technology, built on Bluetooth, that delivers audio directly from a venue sound system to compatible hearing aids, earbuds, and headphones. In this post, I'm going to explain in detail what Auracast is and how it might be the next assistive listening technology for your venue.
What is Assitive Listening?
Most sound systems rely on room loudspeakers, but the acoustics in a room, things like distance, reverberation, and background noise, can muddy even the best loudspeakers. People with excellent hearing can often overcome mild acoustic challenges, but many experience unclear, muffled sound that requires more effort to understand. Even excellent sound systems can't solve this problem for everyone. This is why the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) requires assistive listening for all public sound systems, regardless of the room size.
Like all assistive-listening technologies, Auracast sends audio directly from the sound system to a listener's device, bypassing adverse acoustics. This improves clarity, reduces listening effort, and supports accessibility for people who are hard of hearing, while benefiting anyone who wants clear sound.
Does Auracast use Bluetooth?
Kind of, Auracast is built on Bluetooth, which means it's digital, exceptionally clear, with no background hum. But unlike traditional Bluetooth, which is a one-to-one connection, Auracast is one-to-many. That means an unlimited number of Auracast receivers can connect to a single broadcast.
What makes Auracast especially powerful is the same thing that has made hearing loops so effective for decades. The receivers can be built directly into hearing aids. It's discreet, easy to use, and offers customized sound for each of your ears. In addition to that, Auracast will be available in a range of personal devices, like wireless earbuds or headphones. Over time, most new Bluetooth headphones will likely support Auracast, making it easy for people who hear well at home but miss words in places like theaters, churches, or meetings to hear clearly in all rooms with an Auracast transmitter. And just like any assistive listening system, facilities must also provide standalone Auracast receivers for guests in order to meet accessibility requirements under the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA).
Can I Use It With My Hearing Aids or Implants?
Your hearing aids may not be ready to use Auracast today. But it doesn't mean you're out of luck. Some devices already have the necessary hardware; they're simply waiting on software updates. We call those Auracast-Ready. Check with the hearing care provider to find out. When a device can connect to an Auracast broadcast today, we call it Auracast-Enabled. These terms aren't completely universal yet, but they're helpful in understanding device compatibility. Be sure to verify the Auracast compatibility and features of each hearing aid model with the manufacturer or your hearing care professional.
Auracast-Enabled Hearing Aid Manufacturers
Auracast-Ready Hearing Aid Manufacturers
Where Can Auracast Be Used?
Auracast is already being used in real-world venues. For example, Marriott Theatre in Lincolnshire, Goodman Theatre in Chicago, and Overshadowed Theater in Medinah, Illinois, all have working Auracast systems provided by Thunder Hearing & Sound. And to complete their accessibility coverage, Marriott and Goodman also have hearing loops. Auracast can also be installed across many public and community environments, including, but not limited to:
Houses of Worship
Libraries
Classrooms
Village Halls
Event Spaces
Airports
Museums
Auditoriums
Meeting Rooms
Gym TV's
Restaurant TV's
Personal Audio Sharing
Lastly, it can be used for personal audio sharing. For example, if your computer has an Auracast transmitter, you can share audio with everyone around you who has Auracast-compatible earbuds.
I Already Have Assistive Listening, Should I Get Auracast?
Yes, Auracast works alongside existing assistive listening without interfering with one another. If you already have a hearing loop, first of all, great job! Adding Auracast ensures that new hearing aid users will still have the same or even better experience as loop users.
How Do I Get Auracast?
To learn more about Auracast, visit our website at thunderhearing.com. There you'll find educational resources, Auracast kits available for purchase, and options to contact us for a custom installation quote.