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Bluetooth Auracast is a Bluetooth feature that allows devices like smartphones, TVs, or public announcement systems to broadcast audio to unlimited audio receivers, such as hearing aids.
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Last week, Google announced Android support for Auracast, and users with Auracast-supported smartphones can use them to connect their compatible earbuds or hearing aids to broadcasts via Bluetooth.
In addition to Android support for Auracast, Google included that hearing aid presets can be applied to Auracast streams, allowing users to customize their audio settings.
Real-world use cases
Although Auracast has significant assistive capabilities for those with hearing impairments, this technology has real-world use cases for everyone. Imagine you’re in a sports bar and want to tune into a muted TV playing the primetime game. Connect your Auracast-compatible smartphone and earbuds or hearing aids, then use your phone to find the TV broadcast in your Bluetooth settings.
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Plenty more Auracast-compatible earbuds and Bluetooth speakers are on the market, including the Sony WF-1000XM5, Google Pixel Buds Pro 2, JBL Charge 6, and Samsung Galaxy Buds 3 Pro.
Auracast integration is picking up
In the US, Samsung and Google are the only smartphone manufacturers that support Auracast, but Chinese smartphone maker Xiaomi’s latest phones also support the feature.
Further Auracast device integration relies on smartphone, tablet, earbud, and Bluetooth speaker manufacturers to collaborate with the Bluetooth SIG. This special interest group oversees Bluetooth technology standardization, adoption, and licensing.