Bluetooth Classic

Bluetooth Classic in hearing aids

Bluetooth Classic is the Bluetooth standard that has been used in hearing aids for many years and is still used by several manufacturers today. The technology enables stable wireless audio streaming between hearing aids, smartphones, and other accessories, and it remains a fully functional solution for many users.

Bluetooth Classic is not the same as Bluetooth LE Audio. Bluetooth LE Audio is a newer standard, while Bluetooth Classic continues to be used in many hearing aids where the focus is on stability, compatibility, and proven technology.

Bluetooth Classic vs Bluetooth LE Audio

Bluetooth Classic and Bluetooth LE Audio exist side by side and are used in different hearing aid series depending on the manufacturer’s technical strategy.

In general, the following applies:

• Bluetooth Classic is a well-established technology with broad compatibility
• Bluetooth LE Audio is a newer standard focused on energy efficiency and future features
• Bluetooth Classic does not support Auracast
• Auracast requires hearing aids with Bluetooth LE Audio

Hearing aids that support Bluetooth Classic

Several hearing aids still use Bluetooth Classic as their primary wireless technology. This is particularly common among manufacturers within the Sonova group.

Phonak

Phonak hearing aids support Bluetooth Classic and are known for stable direct streaming to smartphones and other Bluetooth devices. Phonak does not currently use Bluetooth LE Audio.

Unitron

Unitron hearing aids also use Bluetooth Classic. This solution provides reliable streaming and compatibility with a wide range of smartphones and accessories.

Hansaton

Hansaton hearing aids use Bluetooth Classic and share the same technological platform as other Sonova brands. Bluetooth Classic ensures stable connections and familiar streaming functions.

Advantages of Bluetooth Classic in hearing aids

Bluetooth Classic is still widely used because the technology offers several practical advantages in everyday use:

• Stable and well-tested wireless streaming
• Broad compatibility with smartphones
• Support for TV adapters
• A familiar and thoroughly tested user experience

For many users, Bluetooth Classic works perfectly without the need for newer standards or additional features.

Bluetooth Classic and Auracast

Bluetooth Classic does not support Auracast. Auracast is a feature that requires Bluetooth LE Audio and therefore cannot be used directly with hearing aids that rely on Bluetooth Classic.

Need help?

If you are unsure which Bluetooth technology your hearing aid uses, or what options you have for streaming and accessories, you are always welcome to contact us at info@japebo.ie. We are happy to help clarify compatibility and available features based on your specific hearing aid.