All new cell phones must now work with hearing aids

The Federal Communications Commission now requires all new wireless phone models sold in the US to be compatible with hearing aids. This means people who use hearing aids will be able to use any new phone model without needing special equipment or workarounds.

For years, people with hearing aids often had trouble finding cell phones that worked well for them, limiting their choices. This rule means phone manufacturers must design for accessibility from the start, rather than offering it as an optional feature. It removes a barrier that has kept a specific group of users from fully participating in the wireless market.