Audio streaming for hearing aids is compatible with Fire TV devices, marking the first time a smart TV device to stream sound directly to a hearing implant sound processor
Ahead of International Cochlear Implant Day, on February 25, Cochlear is announcing that it will now offer Audio Streaming for Hearing Aids (ASHA) support on compatible Fire TV devices for people living with hearing implant technology. The advancement represents the first time that a smart TV device will stream sound directly to a hearing implant sound processor.
Peter Korn, Director of Accessibility for Devices at Amazon, said, “We’re delighted by our customers’ response to the innovations we’ve made in the entertainment space for people with hearing loss, even as we continue to build solutions that make entertainment more enjoyable for all customers. Now, by working with Cochlear, we’re thrilled that more people will have a simple way to enjoy their favorite TV shows, movies, and more. Entertainment should be accessible to everyone. This is one more way to help make that goal a reality.”
According to the World Health Organization (WHO), more than 1.5 billion people globally live with hearing loss.1 By 2026, more than half (51%) of all households worldwide are predicted to own a smart TV.2
International Cochlear Implant Day (CI Day) has taken place every year on February 25 since 2009, helping to raise awareness of hearing implants and to celebrate the achievements of people using the technology.
So, how does it work? Cochlear has configured direct streaming from Fire TV to Cochlear Nucleus® 8, Nucleus 7, Nucleus Kanso® 2, and Baha® 6 Max Sound Processors. With ASHA, sound processors connect with the Fire TV device at the system level, so customers can enjoy audio from their favorite streaming apps, use Alexa, listen to music, navigational sounds, and more.
ASHA-enabled Fire TV devices include: Fire TV Omni QLED Series, Fire TV Omni Series, Fire TV 4-Series, Fire TV Cube (3rd Gen), and Fire TV Cube (2nd Gen).
To pair a hearing implant sound processor and Fire TV device, customers can visit Fire TV Settings, navigate to Accessibility, select Hearing Aids, and follow the on-screen instructions to connect them.
For more information, go to the Accessibility Features for Fire TV page.
References
- World Health Organization. World report on hearing. World Health Organization. 2021;28
- Business Wire. Strategy analytics: global smart TV household ownership to exceed 50% by 2026. Business Wire. 2021.
- Bouffenie E. Strategy Analytics’ Connected Home Devices service, Global Smart TV Forecast for 88 Countries 2011-2026. Strategy Analytics. 2021.
Source: Cochlear
Images: Cochlear, Photo 36811715 © Eldelik | Dreamstime.com
