You can make a difference in the Apple Support Community!

When you sign up with your Apple Account, you can provide valuable feedback to other community members by upvoting helpful replies and User Tips.

Looks like no one’s replied in a while. To start the conversation again, simply ask a new question.

User profile for user: Crispchristina
Crispchristina Author
User level: Level 1
4 points

Cochlear Accessibility Connectivity with MacBooks

I'm wondering when the possibility of extending Cochlear implant Bluetooth connectivity support to MacBooks/ MacBook Airs, similar to what is currently available for iPhones and iPads.


Given that Apple has a strong commitment to accessibility and innovation, I'm curious if there are any plans to include this feature in future updates.

As someone who works in the tech industry, I understand that integrating such functionality is likely not overly complex, and it would greatly benefit many users who rely on Cochlear implants. This request has been discussed within this community for several years, and I believe it would significantly enhance the user experience across all Apple devices.

Is there any information on whether this feature is being considered or if there are any updates planned in this regard?

Mac mini

Posted on Aug 20, 2024 12:46 PM

Reply
1 reply
User profile for user: brbo
brbo
User level: Level 8
35,921 points

Aug 20, 2024 7:18 PM in response to Crispchristina

Hi Crispchristina

welcome to the Apple (user-to-user) Community!


Re: Cochlear Accessibility Connectivity with MacBooks


Am no expert in this area, yet your question certainly deserves some response.


Apple Support has an article online (link below) which lists all the "Made for iPhone" (MFi) hearing devices from the various manufacturers that are compatible with iPhone and iPad. Seems hearing devices with Cochlear implant Bluetooth connectivity are included in the list.

List of Made for iPhone hearing devices - Apple Support


Also: Listed MFi hearing devices marked with an asterisk (*) use bidirectional streaming, which enables you to talk hands-free. Devices that use bidirectional streaming are also compatible with recent model Mac computers. (ie: Hearing devices that have an asterisk (*) after their name are compatible with Mac computers that have the M2 or M3 chip (and some of the computers that have the M1 chip.)


  • iMac introduced in 2023 or later
  • MacBook Pro introduced in 2021 or later
  • MacBook Air introduced in 2022 or later
  • Mac Studio introduced in 2022 or later
  • Mac Pro introduced in 2023 or later


As none of Cochlear's hearing devices listed have the asterisk (*) it seems it would be up to Cochlear to incorporate the use of bidirectional streaming. You may want to contact Cochlear's support team for any information they may be able to supply: https://www.cochlear.com/us/en/connect/contact-us


All the best :-)

Reply

Cochlear Accessibility Connectivity with MacBooks

Welcome to Apple Support Community
A forum where Apple customers help each other with their products. Get started with your Apple Account.
Learn more Sign up