By HLAA Director of Public Policy Neil Snyder
The Federal Communications Commission (FCC) has just announced a new deadline for Hearing Aid Compatibility (HAC) volume control standards for mobile phones to come within two years. This is a long-awaited, but important, technical standard for cellphone manufacturers and hearing aid users. The Hearing Loss Association of America (HLAA)—the leading voice for millions with, and at risk of, hearing loss—spearheaded a group of accessibility organizations to push for the new standards. Here’s what this means for consumers.
For people who use hearing aids or cochlear implants, finding a phone that connects easily has historically been a challenge. That’s why HLAA fought for decades to ensure all phones meet basic HAC standards, so they work for all people with hearing loss. Learn more about HLAA’s push for HAC here.
Volume control is not just a convenience but a lifeline for millions of Americans with hearing loss. Whether someone uses a hearing aid or just needs louder, clearer audio, accessible volume control can be a key component to communicating effectively and independently.
The FCC’s rules require all wireless phones to be HAC, but the current technical standard for volume control has proven difficult to implement, and manufacturers needed more time to catch up. Developing the new rules has been a sticking point as technology continues to advance. HLAA stepped in to ensure consumers were protected and delays didn’t continue indefinitely.
To prevent disruption, the FCC extended the temporary volume control standard for two more years. This allows mobile phone makers to keep certifying devices using the current method while everyone works toward fully implementing the new system.
HLAA played a key role in urging the FCC to extend the temporary standard because people with hearing loss shouldn’t lose access to phones they rely on every day. By granting the extension, regulators recognized the importance of keeping communication accessible while the industry transitions to stronger rules.
HLAA and the other accessibility organizations also urged the FCC to require regular progress reports for transparency, and to limit the extension to two years.
The new standard is expected by 2027, paving the way for stronger, more consistent volume control requirements. HLAA will stay involved to ensure that the updated rules meet the needs of people with hearing loss. This is a win for accessibility, but continued advocacy is needed to make sure consumers are protected and further delays are avoided.
Cellphones are more than just devices—they’re how we stay in touch with family, connect to work and participate in everyday life. HLAA is committed to ensuring that technology keeps people with hearing loss connected, not left behind.
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