A Brief Bluetooth Hearing Aid History
In 1994 Jaap Haartsen and his colleagues set out to connect two nearby devices without a cord. It seems simple now, but they had no idea how to make it work.
Eventually, they devised a plan to send low-power electrical signals through the air using what they initially called "short link" radio.
They later named the technology Bluetooth and published a protocol that turned the invention into a global standard.
Over the next several years, Bluetooth spread to phones, headphones, and radios. In 2004 Starkey released the first Bluetooth hearing aid using a clunky design plugged into the bottom of a hearing device.
Bluetooth hearing aids have come a long way in the 21 years since they were first released.
Today there are dozens of powerful Bluetooth-enabled hearing devices on the market. Bluetooth connection allows for conveniences for hearing aid wearers like:
- Listening to podcasts and music directly through your hearing aids
- Connection to a hearing aid app that can control settings and volume + indicate when your battery is low
- Take phone calls without holding the phone to your ear
- Some hearing aids are using Bluetooth to experiment with fitness tracking, fall detection, and language translation
Someone buy Jaap a drink. 🍺
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Featured in this article
No Doctor's Visit and 100 Day Returns
- Bluetooth enabled and rechargeable
- 100-day risk-free trial
- Nearly invisible with a sleek design
Smallest Bluetooth-Enabled Hearing Aid
- Completely-In-Canal style comes with 2.4 GHz wireless streaming
- Works with Android and iPhone
- Custom-molded device that sits inside the ear
Best Value for iPhone Users - Jabra Enhance Select
Jabra Enhance Select is our pick for the best overall value in the category. They deliver professional-grade hearing aids through the mail and program them using Telehealth. All three technology levels from the brand allow Bluetooth streaming.
Jabra Enhance Select works for Android devices but does not come with hands-free calling. Wearers need to keep their phones close to capture outbound sound.
In-Clinic Leaders - Phonak Sphere & ReSound NEXIA
Nearly all receiver-in-canal hearing aids at local clinics are Bluetooth-enabled. That list includes Signia, Oticon, Widex, and more. As of early 2024, two brands stand out from the pack on the Bluetooth front - Phonak Lumity and ReSound NEXIA.
- Phonak is the only in-clinic brand that uses a universal Bluetooth connection, giving Android and iPhone users hands-free calling.
- NEXIA stands out for including the latest Bluetooth Low Energy protocol, which will help future-proof your hearing aids for new Bluetooth experiences (like Auracast) over the next few years. More on both products is below. 👇
Smallest Bluetooth Device - Starkey Genesis AI
Starkey makes the best in-the-ear hearing aid with Bluetooth. Their smallest (IIC) hearing aid does not have Bluetooth, but the next size up (CIC) is impressively close to invisible and streams to both iPhone and Android.
Best Earbud-Style - Sony CRE-E10
Sony entered the hearing health space in 2022 with this earbud-style OTC hearing aid. We love the sound quality of this product. CRE-E10 only streams to iOS devices.
Most hearing aids come with Bluetooth - with two exceptions.
Over the last few years Bluetooth has become ubiquitous in premium level hearing aids.
Every leading behind-the-ear style prescription hearing aid now comes with Bluetooth, but that doesn't mean it's a guarantee. There are two notable exceptions to Bluetooth adoption:
#1. Some OTC hearing aids do not include Bluetooth.
This will change over the next few years, but some OTC devices do not yet include streaming capabilities. See our complete guide to OTC hearing aids here.
#2. Invisible-style hearing aids are less likely to include Bluetooth.
The smaller a device gets and the further it sits inside your ear, the harder it is to sustain a solid audio stream. Starkey currently has the smallest Bluetooth streaming hearing aid. This graphic shows the smallest Bluetooth device in their lineup.
So let’s assume you’ve found a hearing aid that does have Bluetooth streaming. How do you know if that streaming capability is good?
Prefer to watch?
See our latest video review of the best Bluetooth hearing aids on the market below. 👇
How did we choose the Bluetooth hearing aids below?
Our team personally tested each of the Bluetooth hearing aids listed below. These are some of the factors we considered.
1. Phone and device compatibility. We tested products for phone compatibility. In general, leading Bluetooth phones can stream from both Android and iPhone but they are only enabled for two-way phone calls (picks up your voice) for iPhone.
Sennheiser All Day Clear and Phonak Sphere are two notable exceptions. If you use an Android device you'll want to consider one of those two options.
2. Consistent connection. We also looked for devices that hold a steady connection with your phone as you move around your home or life.
3. We looked for outliers. Starkey Genesis AI is the smallest Bluetooth hearing aid.
4. We also looked for variety. Everyone has different needs and preferences. We looked for hearing aids with a variety of price points and form factors.
Here are the best Bluetooth hearing aids for 2024. 👇
Best Value for iPhone Users - Jabra Enhance Select
Jabra Enhance Select is our pick for the best overall value in the category. They deliver professional-grade hearing aids through the mail and program them using Telehealth. All three technology levels from the brand allow Bluetooth streaming.
Jabra Enhance Select works for Android devices but does not come with hands-free calling. Wearers need to keep their phones close to capture outbound sound.
Jabra Enhance Select hearing aids are made by the world's 4th largest hearing aid manufacturer (ReSound). Jabra Enhance (originally called Lively) made a name for itself by recreating the full-service audiology service online.
Instead of requiring you to come into their office, Jabra reduces the cost by programming remotely and shipping to your home.
All Jabra products come with a 100-day return policy and 3 years of unlimited remote care. You can find the same product for sale at a local clinic for around $4,500.
Get started by filling out Jabra's online survey via the right-hand corner of their website.
- Overall notes: If you have mild to moderate hearing loss, are on a budget, and want a hearing professional to program your hearing aids to match your hearing loss, this is one of the most compelling products on the market.
- Price: $1,395 for a pair of battery-powered - $1,695 for a pair of rechargeable, $1,995 for enhanced sound quality
- Features: Rechargeable, Bluetooth (not hands-free), Behind The Ear Style
- What audiologists say: “Their audiologists can personalize and program Jabra hearing aids in real-time; highlighting the benefits of telehealth and competent professionals.” - Garrett Thompson, AuD
One of the most affordable and convenient ways to purchase online while maintaining professional care
Comes with a 100 day free-return period
Offers rechargeable batteries and Bluetooth streaming
Remote care requires users to be somewhat tech savvy
Jabra only offers styles that sit behind the ear
In-Clinic Leaders - Phonak Sphere & ReSound NEXIA
Nearly all receiver-in-canal hearing aids at local clinics are Bluetooth-enabled. That list includes Signia, Oticon, Widex, and more. As of early 2024, two brands stand out from the pack on the Bluetooth front - Phonak Lumity and ReSound NEXIA.
- Phonak is the only in-clinic brand that uses a universal Bluetooth connection, giving Android and iPhone users hands-free calling.
- NEXIA stands out for including the latest Bluetooth Low Energy protocol, which will help future-proof your hearing aids for new Bluetooth experiences (like Auracast) over the next few years. More on both products is below. 👇
Phonak Audéo Sphere Infinio hearing aids are new in 2024 and build on the success of the Audéo Lumity series. The Sphere Infinio is Phonak’s most advanced hearing aid, featuring a first-to-market dual-chip architecture and onboard AI technology for real-time sound processing. This device promises more robust background noise management, Bluetooth connectivity, and durability. Think of this hearing aid as the cutting edge of modern hearing technology, designed by one of the world’s most trusted hearing aid companies.
Overall Notes: Audéo Sphere Infinio stands out for its powerful AI-driven sound management, enhanced Bluetooth range, and improved durability. If you’re looking for a premium clinic-prescribed hearing aid that adapts to complex auditory environments, this device will meet your needs with ease. The real-time AI processing and robust Bluetooth streaming capabilities make it a top contender in the market.
Price: The national average price for Phonak Audéo Sphere Infinio is $6,500 per pair. Some providers offer lower prices starting at $4,598/pair. Click here for more on prices.
Features: Rechargeable, Bluetooth with hands-free calling via iPhone and Android, behind-the-ear style, dual-chip architecture, real-time AI processing.
Top of the line customization, Bluetooth connection and rechargeable batteries
Enhanced background noise reduction using artificial intelligence
Highly water-resistant option available for active lifestyles
Sphere is a premium product with an average price of $4,598 per pair.
Phonak products are not sold directly to consumers and require a visit to a local audiologist.
ReSound unveiled NEXIA in October 2023. If you’ve read our past reviews, you might know that ReSound is a regular innovator in the hearing category.
The brand was the first to partner with Apple for Bluetooth streaming back in 2013. In 2022, ReSound released an impressive algorithm update with improved beam-forming tech that boasted a 150% improvement in background noise.
ReSound is also the only manufacturer that places a microphone inside the ear to use the natural shape of the pinna to sort out background noise. Those popular features will remain with ReSound NEXIA with some exciting additions.
The first is a visible reduction in size. Impressively, NEXIA maintains a 30-hour battery life while cutting 25% off the overall size—big thumbs up from us.
The second big announcement is that NEXIA has an updated Bluetooth capability that allows Auracast streaming in public places. If you aren’t familiar with Auracast, check out our guide to the topic here.
ReSound is among the best in the industry at separating speech and noise in a background situation. Our lead audiologist recently put NEXIA in a test box and found the hearing aids could consistently provide up to 8-10 dB of background noise reduction.
ReSound NEXIA is on most of our shortlists for the best premium, receiver-in-canal hearing aids on the market.
- Overall notes: ReSound NEXIA is an all around excellent product with an innovative approach to microphones and one of the smallest form factors in the industry. ReSound NEXIA has strong Bluetooth connection that now boasts Auracast compatibility.
- Price: The national average price for ReSound NEXIA is $7,410 per pair. In our price research we've found some national providers with prices as low as $3,198/pair. Click here for more on prices.
- Features: Rechargeable, Bluetooth with hands-free calling for iPhone and iPad, Small behind the ear style
- What audiologists say: “ReSound offers elegant design and good (if not elite) sound quality. These hearing aids are high quality and reliable.” - Garrett Thompson, AuD
Great for background noise management
Auracast compatible
Small form factor and an optional 3rd microphone in the ear
More expensive compared to direct to consumer and OTC options
NEXIA's in-ear M&RIE microphone is a bit larger and can be uncomfortable for some
Smallest Bluetooth Device - Starkey Genesis AI
Starkey makes the best in-the-ear hearing aid with Bluetooth. Their smallest (IIC) hearing aid does not have Bluetooth, but the next size up (CIC) is impressively close to invisible and streams to both iPhone and Android.
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Starkey Genesis AI Custom
Starkey Genesis AI Custom
Starkey is a U.S.-based manufacturer with a full line of hearing aids that includes behind the ear and in-the-ear styles. They make the list for their elite status in custom molded (nearly invisible products). If you can afford to pay medical-grade prices and want an invisible style, you won’t be disappointed by Starkey.
Starkey is known for intelligent features like fitness tracking, a virtual assistant, and the smallest Bluetooth hearing aid on the market.
- Overall Notes: Starkey Genesis AI is broadly considered the best for custom mold hearing aids. If you want a custom mold, and lead an active lifestyle, this product is a great choice.
- Price: The national average price for Starkey Genesis Custom hearing aids is $6,443 per pair. Our research indicates that you can get Starkey Custom devices for as low as $3,198 for a pair. Click here for more on prices.
- Features: Full range of styles and features including Bluetooth, rechargeability, and fitness tracking for larger devices.
- What audiologists say: “Starkey has been making the smallest and best custom hearing aids for decades. Genesis AI is currently the smallest custom device on the market with Bluetooth streaming capabilities.” - Ramsay Poindexter, AuD
Smallest models are almost entirely invisible
Starkey is a leader in comfortable custom molded products
Larger sizes come with Bluetooth streaming and rechargeable batteries
This is a premium device which costs $3,000-$7,000 per pair
Custom molds require additional lead time and replacement time
The smallest version of Starkey Genesis AI customs are not Bluetooth enabled or rechargeable
Best Earbud-Style - Sony CRE-E10
Sony entered the hearing health space in 2022 with this earbud-style OTC hearing aid. We love the sound quality of this product. CRE-E10 only streams to iOS devices.
Sony teamed up with WS Audiology (the second-largest hearing company in the world) to co-create its products. Sony's CRE-E10 is slightly larger than CRE-C10 but comes with a slick headphone-like design, rechargeable batteries and Bluetooth streaming (currently only available for iOS).
This hearing aid offers prescription-grade sound quality controlled through your smartphone at home (no doctor involved). Sony's hearing aids were released in mid-October and reviews have been glowing. We expect CRE-E10 to be a leading consideration among people looking for a headphone/hearing aid hybrid.
- How it works:
✔️ Start by purchasing Sony hearing aids online (likely coming to brick-and-mortar stores soon)
✔️ Once the product arrives at your home, you'll download the Sony Hearing Control app and self-program the hearing aids to match your hearing loss.
✔️ Use the app to make real-time volume and sound quality adjustments.
✔️ If you need customer support, you can contact Sony's customer service team. - Price: $1,399 on Amazon
- Features: Self-fit using an app, Bluetooth streaming enabled for iPhone, stylish earbud design.
Rechargeable
Modern design
Self-fit at home
Not compatible with Android
More visible than smaller options
Likely less comfortable for all-day wear
How to Think About Bluetooth Low Energy and Auracast
Bluetooth Low Energy (BLE) and Auracast represent the next big leap in how hearing aids will connect to devices like phones, TVs, and even public systems. But what do these terms mean, and why should you care if you're in the market for hearing aids?
Bluetooth Low Energy (BLE) is a new version of Bluetooth that uses less power and provides a more stable connection than what we currently have. If you’ve ever walked too far from your phone and heard crackling in your hearing aids, BLE will help fix that. It can maintain a stronger signal over longer distances—up to four times further without losing connection. This means better sound quality and more reliability in everyday use.
The big advantage of BLE is that it will simplify how hearing aids connect to other devices. Right now, iPhone users go through a system called MFI (Made for iPhone), and Android users have something called ASHA. Both of these systems work, but they can be clunky and require extra steps to set up. With BLE, hearing aids will connect just like any other Bluetooth device—straight through the Bluetooth settings on your phone—making the process much easier, especially for new users.
While BLE is an exciting development, it’s important to note that it’s still rolling out. Over the next few years, more hearing aids and phones will start to support BLE, so if Bluetooth connectivity is important to you, it’s worth considering future-proofing by choosing a hearing aid that’s BLE-enabled today.
Auracast, on the other hand, is a feature that BLE unlocks. Think of Auracast like a "public broadcast" for audio. Imagine walking into a sports bar with several games on different TVs. With Auracast, each TV could send an audio signal that you can pick up directly through your hearing aids, allowing you to listen to the game you care about without disturbing others. This technology could also be used in places like airports, churches, or theaters, where you can tap into a shared audio stream. For hearing aid wearers, this means being able to connect to public audio systems in a way that’s personalized and seamless.
In short, Bluetooth Low Energy and Auracast are game-changers. They will make your hearing aids more powerful, easier to use, and able to connect to a world of new listening experiences. While the full rollout will take a few years, investing in BLE-enabled hearing aids today will set you up for these exciting features in the future.
Here is a list of hearing aids that have BLE built-in today:
- ReSound NEXIA (built-in and turned on)
- Oticon Intent (built-in but requires a firmware update)
- Signia IX (built-in but requires a firmware update)
- Phonak Sphere and Phonak Infinio (built-in but requires a firmware update)
There are no major OTC hearing aids with BLE built-in at the time of this update. Sennheiser All Day Clear will likely age the best since it uses Bluetooth Classic which won't go anywhere for many years to come.
That's all for now, folks.
We hope you enjoyed this guide to the best Bluetooth hearing aids available. We update this page regularly and will be back with new models as they come.
We created this site to make finding hearing products and care more accessible.
Use the shop tab to compare all the leading products on the market (with prices), or check your hearing with our 5-minute hearing test.
If you have questions, you can email our team at any time [email protected].
Frequently asked questions
Auracast is an exciting Bluetooth protocol that will likely replace standard Bluetooth over the next several years. Right now, ReSound NEXIA is the only hearing aid with Auracast. It will take 2-5 years for phones, TVs, and public spaces to build in Auracast broadcast capability. You can read more about Auracast here.
You can read some excellent research here, but the short answer is yes, hearing aids with Bluetooth are very safe. The power the devices emit is around one-thousandth as powerful as we receive when talking on the phone.
Most premium hearing aids allow you to connect to at least two devices (i.e., computer and Phone). Phonak Lumity allows a connection to up to four devices. Many people have trouble switching back and forth between devices, so you might consider a multi-mic accessory if you'll need to seamlessly move between devices throughout the day.
Note that if you have two pairs of hearing aids and use an iPhone, you'll need to "forget" one device under the accessibility settings section before you can pair a new device.
To use the Made for iPhone hearing devices, you need one of these models:
- iPhone 5 or later
- iPad Pro (all models)
- iPad Air (all models)
- iPad (4th generation) or later
- iPad mini (all models)
To use Android for Bluetooth streaming it is recommended that your phone use OS 11 or later. You can find out your version number through the following steps.
- Open your phone's Settings app.
- Near the bottom, tap About phone. Android version.
- Find your "Android version," "Android security update," and "Build number."
Use the pages below to double check your phone compatibility by brand.
This is a great question. Streaming sound quality will rely less on your hearing aids and more on the style of dome or earmold that you wear. Sound is typically richer when your ear is fully sealed. Open-fit hearing aids (with a small rubber dome) typically sound clear but somewhat tinny. Streaming through custom earmolds will sound more like a pair of traditional headphones.
