04 February 2008
Mobile telephones for all
Whistling and buzzing sounds in their cell phones are part of every day life for many hearing aid users. Tougher cell phone requirements in the United States are solving this problem.
Regulations from The Federal Communications Commission require that 50 percent of handsets by February 2008 must meet certain hearing aid compatibility requirements set by the American National Standards Institute.
As of September 2006, nationwide wireless carriers had to provide at least 5 cell phones, or 25 percent of their models, which were accessible for individuals who use hearing aids.
Source: www.fcc.gov
