How does live listening work on iPhone?

Answered by Phillip Nicastro

Live Listen on iPhone is a feature that allows users with Made for iPhone hearing aids to use their iPhone, iPad, or iPod touch as a remote microphone. This means that the device picks up sound from its surroundings and sends it directly to the hearing aids, improving the user’s ability to hear conversations and other sounds.

The process of using Live Listen is quite simple. First, make sure that your iPhone is connected to your Made for iPhone hearing aids. This can be done by going to the Settings app, selecting “Accessibility,” and then choosing “Hearing Devices.” From there, you can pair your hearing aids with your iPhone.

Once your hearing aids are connected, you can enable Live Listen by going to the Control Center. On newer iPhones with Face ID, you can swipe down from the top right corner of the screen to access the Control Center. On older iPhones with a home button, you can swipe up from the bottom of the screen. In the Control Center, you will see an ear icon with sound waves emanating from it. Tap on this icon to enable Live Listen.

With Live Listen activated, your iPhone will use its microphone to pick up sound and transmit it to your hearing aids. This can be particularly useful in situations where there is a lot of background noise, as the microphone on your iPhone can be placed closer to the source of the sound, such as a person speaking. It can also help in situations where the person you want to hear is far away, as the iPhone’s microphone can amplify the sound and send it directly to your hearing aids.

Some examples of situations where Live Listen can be beneficial include noisy restaurants, crowded social events, or when trying to hear someone speaking from a distance. By using Live Listen, you can have better control over the sounds you want to focus on and minimize distractions from background noise.

It is important to note that Live Listen is not a substitute for professional hearing aids or hearing assistance devices. It is designed to work in conjunction with Made for iPhone hearing aids to enhance the listening experience. If you have concerns about your hearing, it is always recommended to consult with a healthcare professional or audiologist to determine the best solution for your needs.

Live Listen on iPhone allows users with Made for iPhone hearing aids to use their device as a remote microphone. By enabling Live Listen and connecting it to your hearing aids, you can improve your ability to hear conversations and sounds in noisy environments or from a distance.