Hearing Aid Compatibility

The Federal Communications Commission has adopted specific hearing-aid compatibility rules for digital wireless telephones. Digital wireless telephones sometimes cause interference with hearing aids because the electromagnetic energy emitted by the telephone's antenna, backlight, or other components may make using a phone difficult.

The standard for compatibility of digital wireless phones with hearing aids is set forth in American National Standard Institute (ANSI) standard C63.19. ANSI C63.19 contains two sets of standards:

• An "M" rating from one to four for reduced radio frequency (RF) interference, enables acoustic coupling with hearing aids that operate in microphone mode, and do not operate in telecoil mode. The higher the "M" rating on the device, the more likely you will be able to use the device with your hearing aid on the microphone setting.

• A "T" rating from one to four to enable inductive coupling with hearing aids operating in telecoil mode. The higher the "T" rating number on the device, the more likely the device can be used with a hearing aid operating on the telecoil setting.

A digital wireless handset is considered hearing aid-compatible for acoustic coupling if it meets an "M3" rating under the ANSI standard. A digital wireless handset is considered hearing-aid compatible for inductive coupling if it meets a "T3" rating under the ANSI standard.

Levels of Functionality

Low end handsets are offered at low cost prices and are very affordable to prepay customers. These handsets have basic call functionality and text messaging capabilities.

Mid level handsets come with features for personalization such as ringtones, picture messaging, and mobile web.

High level handsets offer faster data speeds such as HSPA, video capture capabilities and music, among other features.

Smart level devices provide access to email, full QWERTY keyboard, along with an advanced operating system with the ability to install applications.

Hearing Aid Compatible Handsets