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10/26/2019  |   9:00 AM - 10:00 AM   |  Ventana Ballroom B

Hearing Loop Technology: The Only Globally Universal Open Standard for Hearing Accessibility

The primary goal when attempting to provide individuals with a better listening experience is to increase the signal-to-noise ratio (SNR) of the desired audio signal. Directional microphones and noise-reduction algorithms have strong limitations, while assistive listening technology can, depending on the situation, increase the SNR by several orders of magnitude. It is therefore imperative to encourage the implementation and use of assistive listening systems wherever possible. Hearing loop assistive listening technology has been in use for more than 50 years and provides the only globally universal, manufacturer-agnostic open standard for hearing accessibility in public venues and point-of-sale situations. While the technology is ubiquitous in the United Kingdom, Australia, and Scandinavian countries, its availability is severely lacking in almost any country that does not have specific legal requirements regarding assistive listening systems. Research shows that users strongly prefer hearing loop technology over radio frequency and infrared-based assistive listening systems and although the cost and complexity of installing a hearing loop system may be higher initially, the cost per user is ultimately lower. Recently, new products have entered the market that provide low-cost access to hearing loop systems for individuals who do not own hearing aids or cochlear implants. Smartphone apps even allow for real-time, automated transcription, thus also including deaf individuals in the user base. Aside from the traditional uses, assistive listening technology is now entering the music and festival industry where it not also provides enhanced clarity and music enjoyment, but also actively prevents noise-induced hearing loss, since the desired SNR can be achieved at a much lower overall volume. It is important for users to be informed which venues are equipped with assistive listening technology. For this purpose, LoopFinder was created as a U.S.-wide web platform and iOS app that allows users to locate hearing loop-enabled venues in their proximity. All major hearing loop equipment manufacturers and many integrators are in agreement that a globally universal, unbiased, manufacturer-independent platform to locate accessible facilities is needed. However, collecting this data world-wide is only possible via a crowdsourced effort. Ultimately, hearing loop technology provides a highly effective, user-friendly, and cost-efficient way of creating universal hearing access in public facilities. However, the technology can only spread if in a collaborative effort, manufacturers prioritize compatible devices, hearing professionals promote the technology, end users advocate for its implementation and legislation, and professionally trained integrators install systems in compliance with international performance standards.

• Demonstrate how hearing loop technology provides the most comprehensive and user-friendly solution for hearing accessibility
• Assess which hearing devices (both medical and consumer products) will deliver the best performance and most cost-effective solution for assistive listening
• Discuss which action steps are required to (a) ensure hearing loop technology spreads globally and (b) achieve that users are informed where it is available.

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Thomas Kaufmann (Primary Presenter), OTOjoy, thomas@otojoy.com;
Thomas Kaufmann is a disability advocate, entrepreneur, music enthusiast, and inventor of award-winning assistive listening technology. He holds a German diploma degree in Physics and graduated from the University of California, Santa Barbara with a Master of Science degree in Chemistry. As the Founder and CEO of OTOjOY, his mission is to enhance people’s listening experiences at live events and to raise awareness about hearing loop technology. Thomas is a member of the technical committee of the International Electrotechnical Commission (IEC) that defines international performance standards for hearing loop systems and equipment. OTOjOY was honored with a 2018 CES Innovation Award, a 2018 Edison Award, and named a Top 5 Finalist for the 2018 Global Mobile Awards.

ASHA DISCLOSURE: Financial - Receives Salary for Employment from OTOjOY.   Receives Salary for Employment from OTOjOY.   Nonfinancial - No relevant nonfinancial relationship exists.

AAA DISCLOSURE: Financial - Receives support from OTOjOY.