21Introduction
The wireless telephone industry has developed ratings for some of
their mobile devices, to assist hearing device users in finding mobile
devices that may be compatible with their hearing devices. Not all
mobile devices have been rated. Mobile devices that are rated have
the rating on their box or label located on the box.
The ratings are not guarantees. Results will vary depending on the
user’s hearing device and hearing loss. If your hearing device
happens to be vulnerable to interference, you may not be able to use
a rated mobile device successfully. Trying out the mobile device with
your hearing device is the best way to evaluate it for your personal
needs.
M-Ratings: Mobile devices rated M3 or M4 are likely to generate less
interference to hearing devices than mobile devices that are not
labeled. M4 is the better/higher of the two ratings.
T-Ratings: Mobile devices rated T3 or T4 are likely to be more usable
with a hearing device’s telecoil (“T-Coil Switch” or “Telephone
Switch”) than unrated mobile devices. T4 is the better/higher of the
two ratings. (Note that the hearing aid telecoil must be activated in
order for it to function, and that not all hearing devices have telecoils
in them.)
Hearing devices may also be measured for immunity to this type of
interference. Your hearing device manufacturer or hearing health
professional may help you find results for your hearing device. The
more immune your hearing aid is, the less likely you are to
experience interference noise from mobile devices.
The HAC rating and measurement procedure are described in the
American National Standards Institute (ANSI) C63.19 standard.
Hearing aid compatibility
This mobile device has been tested and rated for use with hearing
aids for some of the wireless technologies that it uses. However,
there may be some newer wireless technologies used in this mobile
device that have not been tested yet for use with hearing aids. It is
important to try the different features of this mobile device thoroughly
and in different locations, using your hearing aid or cochlear implant,
to determine if you hear any interfering noise. Consult your service
provider or the manufacturer of this mobile device for information on
