Assistive Listening Technology

Auracast

How it works

Audio from a source, such as a microphone, TV, or public address system, is transmitted wirelessly via an Auracast transmitter. This transmitter broadcasts the sound as a digital signal that multiple compatible devices can receive simultaneously. The broadcast is picked up directly by hearing aids, cochlear implants, earbuds, or headphones without the need for pairing, but currently an assistant device, such as a Smart Phone, is needed to select the required audio stream. Alternatively receivers with a stream (program) section facility built in are available.

Once received, each device decodes the signal and delivers clear, synchronised, low-latency audio straight to the listener. The exact latency will vary depending upon the transmitter and receiver (HA/HI/ earbud etc) but is typically with the range 30-70ms.This enables shared listening in public spaces or private settings, with each user experiencing consistent sound quality and the ability to adjust volume independently on their own device.

Find out more

Auracast compatible devices can receive the audio broadcast directly, but need an ‘assistant’ (often in the form of a smart phone) to select the audio stream to be listened to.

Auracast is based on Bluetooth LE (Low Energy) Audio, created by the Bluetooth Special Interest Group (SIG). Unlike traditional Bluetooth, which connects one device to a single receiver, Auracast lets one source, like a phone, TV, or speaker, stream audio simultaneously to Auracast compatible headphones, earbuds, or hearing devices.

Auracast supports both public and encrypted private broadcasts. Multiple streams can operate simultaneously in the same space without interference, ensuring audio access in venues like airports and conference rooms.

Auracast enables multiple users to stream audio simultaneously from a single source.

This one-to-many broadcast removes the need for individual device pairing and physical connections, allowing each listener to control their own volume. With a typical transmission range of up to 50m, depending on the transmitter power, local conditions and aerial placement, users can potentially move freely within their environment without broadcast interruption.

Auracast is not set to replace existing assistive listening technologies.

Instead, both technologies can work together to provide the best listening experience.
It will take time for venues, device makers, and users to adopt the necessary technology, and it’s important to ensure people who depend on telecoil hearing aids or don’t use smartphones remain supported.

Adding Auracast as it becomes available will enhance accessibility, but only when it complements existing hearing loop systems rather than replacing them.

Currently, the best approach is to maintain current loop systems and add Auracast transmitters to future-proof accessibility. For new installations, both technologies should be installed side by side wherever possible, ensuring inclusive access for all users.

Bluetooth SIG emphasizes the importance of Auracast's ability to co-exist with other assistive listening technologies, especially hearing loops, to ensure that all users, including those with telecoil-enabled devices, continue to have inclusive access to audio.

How to Access Auracast

Look

Look for assistive listening, specifically Auracast, signage. (Find out more about signeage here)

Connect

Open your device’s Bluetooth settings or Auracast assistant app to find and select the available Auracast audio broadcast.

Select

Select the broadcast you want to hear from the available Auracast streams shown on your device.

Listen

Listen to clear, low-latency audio delivered directly to your device.

Auracast Advantages

Personalized Experience

Users can personalize their listening by adjusting volume and sound settings to their preferences using an appropriate App.

Flexible

Auracast can work across environments, from private home entertainment to public venues.

Reduced Battery Consumption

Auracast uses less power than traditional Bluetooth, reducing battery drain on hearing aids.

One-to-many Audio Streaming

Connects multiple devices to a single source simultaneously.

Multi-stream Coexistence

Multiple Auracast broadcasts can operate in the same space without interference.

Improved range over traditional Bluetooth

Supports listening up to typically 30 - 50m depending on transmitter power and local conditions.

Auracast Limitations

Smartphone Dependency

Accessing Auracast broadcasts often requires a smartphone, which may limit use for individuals who are less familiar with ‘tech’ devices. In many applications, such as in schools and other establishments, smart phones are not permitted.

Not a full replacement

Auracast must coexist with existing systems such as hearing loops for broad accessibility.

Device Availability

At present few devices are compatible with or are based on Auracast technology. It is expected to take around 7 to 10 years before sufficient Auracast compatible hearing devices (HA/CI) are available and so able to potentially displace Hearing Loops or other types of Assistive Listening technologies.

Potential Latency Issues

While Auracast aims for low latency, real-world performance will vary depending on device compatibility and implementation. The generally recognised maximum permissible end-to-end latency (transmitter, receiver and input source) is 40ms. In some situations, such as where a talker needs to hear the broadcast audio signal, a very much shorter latency than this is required.

Battery Consumption

Although Auracast is built for low power use, some devices may still see increased battery consumption with prolonged usage.

Early Stage Adoption

Auracast is built on emerging standards but is not yet fully standardized or widely supported across all devices.

Multiple transmitters

The use of multiple transmitters and seamless handover of audio streams in large spaces such as airports and shopping malls has yet to be developed.

Help Points, Counter Systems & Privacy

Techniques and equipment to cater for broadcast privacy at customer help points, counter systems such as at banks or health care situations have yet to be developed.

Transmission Privacy

In many situations, such as in multiscreen cinemas, adjacent meeting rooms or classrooms, it is important that only the intended or local audio stream can be heard. However, Auracast transmissions can readily travel through typical wall and floor constructions. Privacy provision implies the need for a smart phone or other assistant device to find, select and obtain the permitted stream. Whilst encryption is possible, the public interface with this still requires clarification. The use of QR codes for example is not permitted within many establishments and sites.

Common Auracast Applications

Auracast Standards

Find out more about standards

EQUIPMENT PERFORMANCE STANDARDS

A correctly configured system is inherently compliant with Bluetooth Core Specification 5.2+ (LE Audio) and the Public Broadcast Profile (PBP)

Operates in the 2.4 GHz band in accordance with ETSI EN 300 328 V2.2.2 and equivalent international standards for radio performance, where certified

All radio equipment operates in compliance with ETSI EN 300 328 V2.2.2 (EU harmonised standard)

ACCESSIBILITY STANDARDS

Supports inclusive audio access aligned with ADA Standard 219, pending formal recognition of LE Audio-based systems

Supports the intent of BS 8300 – Design of an accessible and inclusive built environment

Supports inclusive design principles consistent with the goals of IEC 63080 but is not formally addressed by that standard.

Auracast

Auracast compatible devices can receive the audio broadcast directly, but need an ‘assistant’ (often in the form of a smart phone) to select the audio stream to be listened to.

Auracast supports both public and encrypted private broadcasts. Multiple streams can operate simultaneously in the same space without interference, ensuring audio access in venues like airports and conference rooms.

Auracast enables multiple users to stream audio simultaneously from a single source.

Auracast is not set to replace existing assistive listening technologies.

Instead, both technologies can work together to provide the best listening experience. It will take time for venues, device makers, and users to adopt the necessary technology, and it’s important to ensure people who depend on telecoil hearing aids or don’t use smartphones remain supported.

Adding Auracast as it becomes available will enhance accessibility, but only when it complements existing hearing loop systems rather than replacing them.

Currently, the best approach is to maintain current loop systems and add Auracast transmitters to future-proof accessibility. For new installations, both technologies should be installed side by side wherever possible, ensuring inclusive access for all users.

Bluetooth SIG emphasizes the importance of Auracast's ability to co-exist with other assistive listening technologies, especially hearing loops, to ensure that all users, including those with telecoil-enabled devices, continue to have inclusive access to audio.

Common Auracast Applications

Auracast Standards

Auracast News

RNID Auracast Research with Theatre Professionals

10 Steps to Auracasting Your Community

Providing the audio clarity to bring users to tears

GN Case Study Webinar: Frankfurt Airport Auracast Installation

Instead, both technologies can work together to provide the best listening experience.
It will take time for venues, device makers, and users to adopt the necessary technology, and it’s important to ensure people who depend on telecoil hearing aids or don’t use smartphones remain supported.