256 Section 4A: Important Safety Information
Using Your Phone With a Hearing Aid Device
Your phone has been tested for hearing aid device compatibility. When 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 ratings for some of their
mobile phones, to assist hearing device users in finding phones that may be
compatible with their hearing devices. Not all phones have been rated.
Phones that are rated will have the rating on the box.
Your M1 has an M4
rating.
The M3/M4 ratings do not guarantee successful interoperation between
your phone and hearing aid device.Results will vary depending on the level
of immunity of your hearing device and degree of your hearing loss.
The more immune your hearing aid device is, the less likely you are to
experience interference noise from your wireless phone. Hearing aid
devices should have ratings similar to phones. Ask your hearing healthcare
professional for the rating of your aids. Most new hearing aids have at least
an M2 immunity level. Add the “M” ratings of your hearing aid and your
phone to determine probable usability:
v
Anycombined rating equal to or greater than six offers best use.
v
Any combined rating equal to five is considered normal use.
v
Anycombined rating equal to four is considred usable.
Thus, if you pair an M3 hearing aid with an M3 phone, you will have a
combined rating of six for “best use.”
Sprint Nextel further suggests you experiment with multiple phones (even
those not labeled M3 or M4) while in the store to find the one that works
best with your hearing aid device. Should you experience interference or
find the quality of service unsatisfactory after purchasing your phone,
promptly return it to the store within 30 days of purchase. With the
Sprint 30-day Risk-Free Guarantee, you may return the phone within
30 days of purchase for a full refund.
Note:
Phones rated M3 or M4 meet FCC requirements and may generate less
interference to hearing devices than phones that are not labeled. M4 is
the better/higher of the two ratings.
