Finding Cell Phones for the Hearing Impaired
Cell phones can be problematic for those with a hearing impairment; with limited volume, poor seal around the ear that allows background noise to intrude, and transmissions that interfere with hearing aids.
On this page you can discover how to find the best cell phone for hearing impaired individuals and those who are deaf: the features to look for when shopping and the other devices that can make communication easier. Just remember to always "try before you buy" to assure any phone you choose meets your needs, then, to get the best deals, buy online.
For those interested in a corded or cordless amplified phone be sure to visit Amplified Phones.
On this page you can discover how to find the best cell phone for hearing impaired individuals and those who are deaf: the features to look for when shopping and the other devices that can make communication easier. Just remember to always "try before you buy" to assure any phone you choose meets your needs, then, to get the best deals, buy online.
For those interested in a corded or cordless amplified phone be sure to visit Amplified Phones.What Are the Critical Cell Phone Features to Consider for the Hearing Impaired?
There are a number of features to consider when selecting a cell phone for the hearing impaired:Learn all about these features below.
Hearing Aid Compatible Cell Phones
Some cell phones are designated as being compatible with hearing aids. When a cell phone and hearing aid are in close proximity, interference can result; creating a buzzing sound that makes hearing voice on a cell phone difficult, or in some cases, virtually impossible.Both cell phones and hearing aids have an "M" (microphone) and/or a "T" (telecoil) rating. Users should compare ratings based on which setting they use on their hearing aid while on the cell phone. The higher the rating, the better the phone should work with their hearing aid.
An ideal cell phone for the hearing impaired who wear a hearing aid should have a rating of at least M3/T3 or M4/T4. If the combined rating of the cell phone and the users hearing aid is 6 or better they should get satisfactory results.
Just a few of the cell phones available which meet the hearing aid compatibility standards are shown near the bottom of this page.
Cell Phone Volume Control
Another very simple step when seeking a cell phone for the hearing impaired is to identify models that offer a volume control which increase volume adequately. The only way to really know for sure is to go into the store and try one out.Potential buyers also need to check out the volume control to assure that it is easy and convenient to operate as it may be a frequently used function.
For some who aren't in the market for a new cell phone, a cell phone amplifier might be considered as well.
There are a few cell phone models that offer padding around the earpiece that help to filter out background noise. Having less unwanted noise competing with the signal the listener needs to hear results in easier communication.
Jitterbug Cell Phone
The Jitterbug cell phone is one option that offers good volume and a padded earpiece. However, this cell phone is a simplified device and doesn't offer all the video capable features many younger users desire but is a great device for someone wanting a basic cell phone that is easier to hear. A Jitterug cell phone also offers a T4 rating for those with telecoil hearing aids, and has larger, easy to use buttons and simple commands.
If a Jitterbug cell phone doesn't sound right for you find out more about other options below. However, if a Jitterbug's senior friendly cell phone sounds like your kind of phone learn more here.
Another possibility is the Clarity C900
which is also designed for seniors with large buttons but provides 20dB amplification. It provides voice calling and text messaging functions for those on a GSM network (AT&T, T-Mobile)
If a Jitterbug cell phone doesn't sound right for you find out more about other options below. However, if a Jitterbug's senior friendly cell phone sounds like your kind of phone learn more here.
Another possibility is the Clarity C900
which is also designed for seniors with large buttons but provides 20dB amplification. It provides voice calling and text messaging functions for those on a GSM network (AT&T, T-Mobile)curated content from YouTube
Cell Phone Amplifiers
The Text Messaging Option as an Alternative to Calling
For some, getting a phone with text messaging capabilities can be a great way of communicating quickly and easily. Most modern cell phones offer texting capabilities and if paired with a data service plan can be a great add on feature.Some have suggested using a Blackberry specifically as it offers text to voice and voice to text capabilitites or perhaps a AT&T Tilt based on it's great texting abilities. If you're interested in other phones, see our page about the best phones for text messaging.
If texting will be the primary method of communication, learning more about data only plans may be in order as well. Find out more below.
Another Great Texting Cell Phone
Unlocked sidekick 3 gsm smartphone
Amazon Price: (as of 11/30/2009) 
T-Mobile Sidekick Phone, Black (T-Mobile)
Amazon Price: $0.01 (as of 11/30/2009)
RIM Blackberry 8700c for AT&T
Amazon Price: (as of 11/30/2009)
Data Only Plans for the Deaf and Those with Profound Hearing Loss
Finding the right cell phone for the hearing impaired or deaf individual is only the start in some cases. Finding the right plan can be equally important, especially if the phone will be used primarily for text messaging. Several cellular providers offer data only plans that allow customers who only make use of data services such as text messaging to sign up without requiring voice services.
T-Mobile has the Data Plan, AT&T has their Text Accessbility Plan, Sprint has the Relay Data Plan, and US Cellular offers several options inluding a standard wireless plan. Verizon Wireless has data only plans starting at $34.99/month, you can see more here.
T-Mobile has the Data Plan, AT&T has their Text Accessbility Plan, Sprint has the Relay Data Plan, and US Cellular offers several options inluding a standard wireless plan. Verizon Wireless has data only plans starting at $34.99/month, you can see more here.
A Text Messaging/E-Mail Only Device
It's not a cell phone at all, but for under $20/month you get nationwide text messaging and e-mail support for up to 5 accounts. It's the Peek Pronto. It can be found online for $49.99 with monthly service at $19.99, quarterly service for $49.95, annual service for $179.95 or can be purchased for $299 with lifetime service. (No contract is required) Users can view JPEG, PDF, and Word documents. It's also small and lightweight at a mere 3.84 ounces. It features a 2.5" diagonal color QVGA screen and a very roomy, backlit QWERTY keyboard for easy messaging. It's said to have a great battery life of 4 to 5 days and takes only 2 hours to charge. You can see it below.
Peek Pronto for Sale
Peek Pronto Mobile Messaging Device (Grey)
Also available in Cherry and Aqua.
Amazon Price: $29.99 (as of 11/30/2009)
Peek Pronto Mobile Messaging Device with Lifetime Service Included (Grey)
Amazon Price: $299.95 (as of 11/30/2009)
Vibration Alert
For the deaf and many of those with hearing loss, a vibration alert is more effective and less intrusive to others than a loud ringtone. Most cell phones offer the option of using a vibration instead of a ringtone, thus this should be an easy to find feature.A phone which can be clipped onto the clothing of the owner allows easy detection of the vibration and thus, a clip or similar feature should be sought. When necessary, clips and similar devices can be purchased separately so this should not be a limiting factor.
Cell Phone Clips
Best Cell Phone Design for Those with Hearing Impairment
Cell phones come in two primary designs. Some cell phones are shaped like a "candy bar", just a rectangular shape with no need to flip it open to use it.The best cell phone for the hearing impaired individual however, ideally has a "clam shell" design" which flips open giving the phone a longer profile. Such phones are more easily held to the ear and can even offer the padding mentioned earlier to block out background noise.
In addition, the longer profile of such cell phones provides increased distance from the transmission components of the cell phone, minimizing any interference that may occur as a result of proximity to any hearing aid.
Other Cell Phone Considerations for Those with Hearing Impairment
Using the telecoil setting on a hearing aid tends to decrease background noise and feedback. However, even the backlight on a cell phone can create problems, thus a cell phone that allows users to switch off the backlight is preferred to reduce the occurence of intrusive noise.
Some manufacturers have also developed neckloops that can help increase the distance between the compenents of the cell phone and the telecoil. These neckloops can provide the convenience of handsfree operation while driving.
Some manufacturers have also developed neckloops that can help increase the distance between the compenents of the cell phone and the telecoil. These neckloops can provide the convenience of handsfree operation while driving.
Cell Phone Neckloops
VCO Capabilities for a Cell Phone
A VCO (Voice Carry Over) Phone is similar to a standard amplified phone with a text screen for typed messages. A VCO phone allows the deaf or HOH person to speak directly into the handset to communicate. The call is routed through a VCO service and when the person receiving the call responds, an assistant types the message for the deaf or HOH person to read.
This method of calling allows those with severe hearing impairment to communicate more normally and much faster than when using a regular TTY where they have to type.
Now there are VCO machines that can be used with cell phones which allow easier and faster communication with these devices.
This method of calling allows those with severe hearing impairment to communicate more normally and much faster than when using a regular TTY where they have to type.
Now there are VCO machines that can be used with cell phones which allow easier and faster communication with these devices.
Voice Carry Over Phones
Krown Pocket Speak and Read VCO - Cellular Version
Amazon Price: (as of 11/30/2009)
Is Hatis the Answer?
Hatis is a simple earpeice with an induction coupler that goes into the ear. It can be used with both in-the-ear and behind-the-ear T-coil hearing aids for those with moderate to profound hearing loss. It allows such individuals to hear conversations with much better audio quality.It can plug into any audio jack, from cell phones and landlines to equipment such as a television or MP3 player. It's highly portable and light weight making it extremely comfortable and inconspicuous.
Free trials of this device are available through Verizon Wireless stores and local audiologists.
See a demo of Hatis here.
Want to Learn More about Cell Phones for the Hearing Impaired?
- Consumer Affairs article
- Information about the transition to all digital networks in the US cellular industry and how this will effect those who wear hearing aids and use cell phones.
- FCC Fact Sheet
- Information from the FCC about requirements on cellular providers/cell phone manufacturers to provide hearing aid compatible cell phones.
- Gallaudet Information Page
- Information about why cell phones are problematic for those with hearing loss and tips on choosing an appropriate cell phone.
- Access Wireless article
- More detailed information about "M" and "T" ratings. Be sure to access the links at the bottom of the article for more information.
- Buzzle
- An informative article about choosing the right cell phone if you wear a hearing aid.
The Future of Cell Phones for the Deaf
In Sweden and Japan, the deaf community has the advantage of being able to use sign language to communicate with their cell phone. In the US our phones and cellular networks can't accomodate this. However, that may be changing as a team out of the Unviersity of Washington has introduced software that will compensate for the low data transmission rates used in the US.
Watch the video below or read this story at Science Daily to learn more.
Watch the video below or read this story at Science Daily to learn more.
MobileASL: Will Signing via Cell Phone be available in 2009?
MobileASL Research Movie
Describes the MobileASL research project using real time video over the mobile cell phone network in the U.S.
curated content from YouTube
When You're Ready to Buy a New Cell Phone
Now you know how to select the best cell phone for with hearing impaired individual. When you are ready to shop, the best deals for cell phones and cell phone plans can often be found online. Shopping in a brick and mortar store to try out a phone is wise, then returning online to find the best deal is recommended. Several surveys have shown that online shoppers experience greater satisfaction rates.
You can find phones below or visit our recommended store which offers free shipping:
You can find phones below or visit our recommended store which offers free shipping:
Just a Few of the Hearing Aid Compatible Cell Phones
Help Others Find the Best Cell Phones and Gear--Add Your Thoughts!
What Have You Used that Works Well for Those with Hearing Impairment?
Sidekick Slide
I have a deaf friend who uses the T-Mobile Sidekic more...1 point
News about Cell Phones and Other Phones for the Hearing Impaired from Google
- New Mobile Phone for Hearing Impaired and Special Needs Persons
- Finally a mobile phone for hearing impaired and special needs persons with all of the bells and whistles that other phones have. New from Clarity, the C900 Amplified Mobile Phone is a worldwide compatible GSM phone. ...
- Mobile phone for hearing impaired
- Replies: 0 Last poster: AfricaNews editor at 13-10-2009 13:22 Topic is Sticky The 71 grams device offers MTN customers with hearing aids a secure, hands-free mobile telephone experience, with an excellent sound quality from their cell ...
- Clarity 5.8 GHz Professional Amplified Cordless Phone with DCP and ...
- 5.0 out of 5 stars. Good phone for hearing impaired. I bought this phone for my mother who is very hard of hearing but refuses to use hearing aids. I no longer have to spend our phone conversation screaming and not being heard. ...
- Tech2.com India > Pantech Develops Phone for Hearing Impaired ...
- Pantech, the Korean mobile phone manufacturer has developed a mobile phone that will be effective even for people who have hearing problems. The Pantech A1407PT is a clamshell phone which uses bone conducting technology to transmit ...
Have an Old Cell Phone You Want to Sell?
Cell Phones for the Hearing Impaired: Did You Find What You Need?
If you did not find what you were looking for be sure to visit our full service communications and home electronics store.
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- Spook Spook Nov 21, 2009 @ 3:35 pm
- I'm so sorry it has taken me so long to rate this great lens. With my implant I can hear on the phone. Understanding what is being said apart from people who are close to me is difficult. I sometimes wonder about the hearing world. You try with full hearing coming from a different country to understand the Irish or the Scots, for example. You battle. Imagine what it's like for someone in the same circumstances who has no hearing. Yet people get annoyed having to repeat themselves. However when people with full hearing say 'huh' and somebody has to repeat themselves. Nothing wrong with that. Think about it. Blessed by an Angel.
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- KM9999999 KM9999999 Nov 8, 2009 @ 12:18 am
- Very useful info. I bet most people don't even think about this unless it's something they really need.
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- ftuley ftuley Oct 23, 2009 @ 8:10 pm
- Really good lens! 5* thank you for sharing, really enjoyed reading it. Must tell my mum this.
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- kiwisoutback kiwisoutback Jun 26, 2009 @ 9:47 pm
- Nice work! I know quite a few older people that NEED these. It's one of the most frustrating things for people with good hearing to have to repeat yourself time and time again. I'm lensrolling this to my Crackberry lens and blessing it.
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- hempnecklace hempnecklace Apr 21, 2009 @ 3:21 pm
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David Depape
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Photo Credits
Introduction: absolutwade.
Hearing Aid Compatible Cell Phones: kateweb.
Text Messaging Option: Iamsam.
Cell Phone Volume Control: cursedthing.
Vibration Alert: Okko Pykko.
Best Cell Phone Design: Sarah Jones.
Hatis: aymlis.
Critical Cell Phone Features: dougbelshaw.
This site is listed at LensMasterWorld.com.
Introduction: absolutwade.
Hearing Aid Compatible Cell Phones: kateweb.
Text Messaging Option: Iamsam.
Cell Phone Volume Control: cursedthing.
Vibration Alert: Okko Pykko.
Best Cell Phone Design: Sarah Jones.
Hatis: aymlis.
Critical Cell Phone Features: dougbelshaw.
This site is listed at LensMasterWorld.com.
by mulberry
As the webmaster of an online cellular and electronics store. I made this one page resource for shoppers looking for cell phones for the hea...
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