
Auracast according to Univox
Auracast™ and the Future of Accessible Listening: Univox’s Vision and Strategy
Many of you have asked about Auracast™ and our view on the matter. We understand the anticipation and curiosity surrounding this technology, and while we have been silent on the topic, rest assured that it has nothing to do with disinterest. The following text outlines our perspective on Auracast™ and our approach to implementing it as we move forward.
Auracast™ promises incredible potential. It has been a topic of industry discussion and excitement for six years—even before it had an official name. Now that Auracast™ is almost here, we’d like to share Univox’s position and vision for the future.
Auracast™ is part of the Bluetooth LE 5.2 standard, which allows audio to be shared from one device to many. While this is an exciting development, it also has some challenges. Auracast™ has more delay, or “latency,” compared to other assistive listening technologies, such as induction loops, infrared (IR), or FM systems. These low-latency systems are important for live events and other real-time audio needs, making them a preferred choice for hearing advocacy groups and venues focused on accessibility. In fact, induction loops, which offer low latency and reliable performance, are still the preferred solution in many places.
Even with these concerns, we believe that Auracast™ is likely to replace induction loops, IR, and FM systems over time. In the next 5-10 years, we expect it will become the standard for assistive listening, especially as the Bluetooth Special Interest Group (SIG) continues to work on improving its performance and reducing latency. At the same time, it is important to recognize that established technologies like induction loops have proven to be reliable and effective solutions for accessible audio. Advocacy groups and organizations for people with hearing loss emphasize the importance of not abandoning well-functioning technologies in favor of new ones simply because they are new. For example, the European Federation of Hard of Hearing People (EFHOH) recently reiterated its support for continuing the implementation of induction loops in assistive listening systems.
Our plan is to introduce Auracast™ thoughtfully, in combination with our existing solutions, based on the following factors:
- Telecoils in hearing aids are becoming less common: Induction loops, while still valuable, are no longer as widely used as they once were.
- IR and FM systems are not replacements for induction loops: They are best suited as alternatives for situations where loops may not be ideal.
- Wi-Fi systems are not traditional assistive listening: While Wi-Fi is useful, the “bring your own device” (BYOD) model does not meet accessibility standards in the same way as induction loops or Auracast™.
- Auracast™ is being pushed by SIG and consumer electronics companies: It is likely to continue even if the assistive listening community doesn’t fully embrace it right away.
Looking ahead to 2025, we expect more Auracast™ products on the market. However, right now only a handful of hearing aids from a few manufacturers support Auracast™. Many hearing aid brands use their own Bluetooth technology to keep customers in their brand-specific ecosystem, so switching to a universal standard like Auracast™ will likely take time. Also, hearing aids are replaced less frequently than personal devices, so it may take even longer for Auracast™ to become the main choice for assistive listening.
In the meantime, we recommend installing Auracast™ and induction loops together as a hybrid solution, which provides several benefits:
- Backwards compatibility and future-proofing: By using both systems, we ensure access for current telecoil users while also supporting future Auracast™ devices.
- Broader accessibility: Hybrid systems allow venues to serve individuals with telecoil and Auracast™-enabled hearing aids and to offer augmented hearing for those who don’t use hearing aids but can connect through headphones with an Auracast™ receiver.
We believe this hybrid solution is the best approach moving forward, and we encourage others to consider it as well. It is the most practical way to transition to new technology without excluding current users, which supports a fully inclusive approach.
Bettear B-CASTER Auracast™ streamer
We are also pleased to announce that we will soon offer an Auracast™ transmitter through our collaboration with Bettear. The Bettear B-CASTER Auracast™ streamer brings a groundbreaking advancement to assistive listening. Designed to enhance audio experiences for individuals with hearing impairments, the B-CASTER seamlessly integrates with Auracast™-compatible devices, delivering crystal-clear, low-latency audio across hearing aids, cochlear implants, and other hearables.
Key Features of the B-CASTER:
- Audio Streaming Over Auracast™: Comprehensive support for Auracast™ broadcasting
- Near Real-Time Audio: Stream audio with <40ms latency for a real-time experience
- Cascadable Power over Ethernet (PoE): Daisy-chain B-CASTER with Wi-Fi APs for easy expansion
- Auracast™ Hearables Compatibility: Ensures seamless listening for all Auracast™-based hearables
- Management Dashboard: Web dashboard for easy configuration and control
- Optimal Audio Experience: Exceptional sound quality for enjoyable, accessible listening
- Adjustable Audio Settings: Bettear’s free app provides full control over Auracast™ settings on iOS and Android
Whether in standalone mode for direct Auracast™ streaming or in hybrid mode with the B-SHOW, the B-CASTER ensures that any venue becomes fully accessible. Experience the future of accessibility today with the Bettear B-CASTER.