Last Updated on August 25, 2025 by Jonathan Javid Au.D.
As an audiologist, I’m often asked how one hearing aid communicates with the other. Modern hearing aids use sophisticated wireless chips to share sound data between ears, enabling synchronized volume control, binaural phone streaming, and advanced background noise reduction. In this updated 2025 guide, we’ll explain how 2.4GHz wireless technology—now the universal standard—is used in hearing aids, and note the rare exception of older Starkey Picasso models that used 900MHz.
How Do Hearing Aids Communicate With Each Other?
All modern hearing aids use 2.4GHz wireless chips for short-range communication and device connectivity. These chips allow hearing aids to:
- Synchronize volume and program settings across ears
- Stream phone calls and media directly from smartphones
- Analyze sound direction for improved speech clarity in noise
- Manage wind noise between ears for a more natural listening experience
Older technology included:
- 900MHz – Used historically by Starkey (notably the older Picasso models)
Why 2.4GHz is Now Universal
The 2.4GHz frequency is the same spectrum used by Bluetooth and Wi-Fi, making it ideal for direct streaming to smartphones, TVs, and other devices without extra accessories. It offers a balance of range, compatibility, and sound quality. While older systems like NFMI and 900MHz had their strengths, 2.4GHz delivers a simpler, more universal solution for both ear-to-ear communication and external device streaming.
Today’s premium hearing aids—such as the Phonak Audeo Infinio Sphere, Oticon Intent 1, and Starkey Genesis AI—use 2.4GHz for:
- Direct iOS and Android streaming
- Instant ear-to-ear sound sharing for speech understanding
- Adaptive microphone focus in noisy settings
- Seamless connection to TVs, remote microphones, and apps
Older Wireless Technology: 900MHz
900MHz wireless—similar to cordless phone frequencies—offered longer range (up to ~50 feet) and was useful for TV streaming. However, it was more susceptible to interference and less effective for large ear-to-ear data transfers. The last notable use of 900MHz was in the Starkey Picasso line, which has since been discontinued in favor of 2.4GHz.
Related Questions
How do CROS hearing aids work?
CROS hearing aids send microphone input from the poorer ear to the better ear using 2.4GHz wireless technology. They help people with single-sided deafness hear sounds from all directions.
Are wireless hearing aids safe with pacemakers?
Yes, wireless hearing aids from major manufacturers are generally safe for people with pacemakers. Always confirm with your cardiologist before use.
Modern hearing aids wirelessly share data to create more natural listening experiences. To discover how this technology interacts with other accessories like TV streamers, apps, and loop systems, visit our comprehensive guide to hearing aid accessories and tech.