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Hearing Aid Compatibility (HAC) regulations for Mobile phones
In 2003, the FCC adopted rules to make digital wireless telephones compatible with
hearing aids and cochlear implants. Although analog wireless phones do not usually
cause interference with hearing aids or cochlear implants, digital wireless phones
sometimes do because of electromagnetic energy emitted by the phone's antenna,
backlight, or other components.
Your phone is compliant with FCC HAC regulations (ANSI C63.19).
While some wireless phones are used near some hearing devices (hearing aids and
cochlear implants), users may detect a buzzing, humming, or whining noise.
Some hearing devices are more immune than others to this interference noise, and
phones also vary in the amount of interference they generate.
The wireless telephone industry has developed a rating system for wireless phones,
to assist hearing device users find phones that may be compatible with their hearing
devices. Not all phones have been rated. Phones that are rated have the rating on
their box or a 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 phone
successfully. Trying out the phone with your hearing device is the best way to evaluate
it for your personal needs.
M-Ratings: Phones rated M3 or M4 meet FCC requirements and are likely to
generate less interference to hearing devices than phones that are not labeled.
M4 is the better/higher of the two ratings.
T-Ratings: Phones rated T3 or T4 meet FCC requirements and are likely to be more
usable with a hearing device’s telecoil (“T Switch” or “Telephone Switch”) than unrated
phones. T4 is the better/higher of the two ratings. (Note that not all hearing devices
have telecoils in them.) Hearing devices may also be measured.
Your phone meets the M4/T3 level rating. Hearing devices may also be rated. Your
hearing device manufacturer or hearing health professional may help you find this
rating.
For more information about the FCC Hearing Aid Compatibility please go to
http://www.fcc.gov/cgb/dro.
