As technology has advanced, so have hearing aids. Many of today’s devices incorporate technological advances, such as wind reduction and noise cancellation features. Other devices allow you to shift automatically between programs or have directional microphones that allow you to track a conversation with more ease. The idea behind all of these innovations is to make hearing aids more functional for everyday use so that you can be sure that you hear your best.

Another innovation comes in the devices that offer digital connectivity, often through the use of Bluetooth technology or specialized apps that work on your smartphone or tablet. As more people adopt the use of smartphones, hearing aids that work together with these devices are increasingly important. If you own an iPhone and need a hearing aid, there are devices that cater to your needs.

Constantly Improving

In 2011, Apple announced that it would work on creating hearing aids that integrated directly with the iPhone. The first Made for iPhone hearing aid hit the market in 2013. Apple worked closely with hearing aid developers to create a smaller, more compact device that was fully integrated with iPhone. Unlike previous models, the devices do not need a third-partydevice to connect to each other. The new hearing aid connected directly to iPhone, allowing better integration.

Since then, many more models of the iPhone have been released—and there have been many more Made for iPhone hearing aid models, too.

Advancing Functionality

Apple owns a number of patents that relate to an entire system that would allow hearing devices to communicate with each other in order to define the best settings for different circumstances. Development of Made for iPhone hearing devices has worked toward this, taking advantage of Bluetooth technology to allow iPhones and hearing aids to connect directly.

Apple also consulted extensively with Danish hearing aid manufacturer GN ReSound to ensure that maximum battery life for the hearing aid and that communication between the devices was as smooth as possible. The hearing aids can be used as a two-way headset for phone calls and to stream music. The app allows the owner to adjust the device’s settings.

More Devices

Over time, the number of Made for iPhone hearing aid models has grown steadily. There are a number of manufacturers, including ReSound, Widex, and a host of others that offer devices specifically geared to work with iPhone. Apple has steadily supported the program, even launching a new website dedicated to hearing technology in 2016.

There are 44 different models of hearing aids users can choose from, all of which allow you to connect directly to your iPhone or iPad and stream audio directly to your ears. This can cut background noise and allow for crystal-clear audio. Even some cochlear implants are now Made for iPhone, allowing the implant to connect directly to an iOS device. That’s good news for anyone with more serious hearing loss.

How Can You Get Made for iPhone?

If you have an iPhone or a device using iOS, you’re likely interested in getting a Made for iPhone hearing aid. All of the 44 different devices are issued by audiologists. A doctoral-level audiologist can help you determine what kind of hearing loss you have, the extent of your hearing loss and then can recommend the device that will best support you.

Audiologists consider their patients’ needs, which includes budget. An audiologist can help you select the device that is best for you.