Google recently took center stage at Samsung’s Unpacked event to announce LE Audio compatibility for hearing aids. While the company didn’t mention many details, thanks to Android 16 beta 1, we now know how it would help hearing aid users.
Android 16 might add two new features that will be useful for hearing aid users
As reported by Android Authority, Android 16 beta 1 includes a few new features that improve the overall experience for hearing aid users. One of the features is ambient volume controls for LE Audio hearing aids. Another feature allows using a smartphone’s mic for voice calls instead of a hearing aid’s mic.
Speaking of ambient volume controls, it allows you to adjust the amount of background noise you want to hear. Let’s say you are in noisy surroundings. You can use this feature to cut down the external noise. Similarly, when it’s too quiet, you have the option to turn them up.
Google, in its official documentation, says that Android 16 will allow LE Audio hearing aid users to “adjust the volume of ambient sound that is picked up by the hearing aid’s microphones.”
Although Google didn’t mention how users can adjust the volume, code strings found by the news outlet say it all. It allows you to control the ambient volume of each earbud separately, or both earbuds simultaneously. You’ll also be able to quickly mute and unmute sounds coming from your surroundings.
Users can switch between mics of their phone and hearing aids
Android 16 could also let you switch between built-in microphones on your smartphone and hearing aids during voice calls. This feature can be useful when you’re in a noisy surrounding or your hearing aid’s mic may not work as expected.
Remember, switching to your smartphone’s mic can be extremely useful when your hearing aid is low on battery. Furthermore, you might get a notification to use a different mic using a “switch” option during calls.
All in all, it seems Android 16 will bring a bunch of improvements to elevate user experience. Some of these include improved split-screen multitasking, a redesigned volume slider, and a more compact notification shelf.
