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
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- 2011).
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 in finding 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. These ratings are
not guaranteed. Results will vary, depending on the level of immunity of your hearing device and the
degree of your 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.
This phone has been tested and rated for use with hearing aids for some of the wireless technologies that
it uses. However, there may be some newer wireless technologies used in this phone that have not been
tested yet for use with hearing aids. It is important to try the different features of this phone thoroughly
and in different locations, using your hearing aid or cochlear implant, to determine if you hear any
interfering noise. Consult your service provider or the manufacturer of this phone for information on
hearing aid compatibility. If you have questions about return or exchange policies, consult your service
provider or phone retailer.
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 contain telecoils.)
Your
H5
has been tested for hearing aid device compatibility and has an
M4/T3
rating.
Hearing devices may also be measured for immunity to this type of interference. Your hearing device
manufacturer or hearing health professional may help you find results for your hearing device.
For additional information about the FCC’s actions with regard to hearing aid compatible wireless devices
and other steps the FCC has taken to ensure that individuals with disabilities have access to
telecommunications services, please go to www.fcc.gov/cgb/dro.
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