One of the key aspects of the new rules is the requirement for all mobile handsets sold in the U.S. to meet certain volume control standards. This will allow users to increase the volume on their devices without introducing distortion, ensuring clear audio for everyone, including those who don’t use hearing aids.
To further enhance connectivity, the FCC has also mandated Bluetooth coupling capabilities. This is expected to encourage manufacturers to move away from proprietary Bluetooth standards, leading to more universal connectivity between mobile handsets and hearing aids, including over-the-counter models.
Apple’s Airpods Pro 2 will soon be able to perform a hearing test and work as hearing aids. | Image credit — Apple” 
In addition, the FCC has revised its labeling and website posting requirements to make it easier for consumers to find the information they need to make informed handset purchasing decisions. Point-of-sale labels will clearly indicate if a handset is hearing aid compatible, if it meets Bluetooth or telecoil coupling requirements, and will provide information about the handset’s conversational gain, which is a measure of how much the volume can be increased without causing distortion. Telecoils bypass the hearing aid’s microphone, directing sound straight to its processor. This improves the signal-to-noise ratio and eliminates feedback.
These new rules represent a significant step forward in making mobile technology more accessible to everyone. By ensuring that all mobile phones are hearing aid compatible, the FCC is helping to level the playing field and ensure that people with hearing loss have the same opportunities to connect and communicate as everyone else.
