Technology and assistive devices

Technology can help you hear better, stay independent, and enjoy the things you want to do.

Learn what types of assistive devices are available, and how to make the most of technology for different situations.

Buy assistive devices from Connevans

RNID partners with Connevans, an online shop that specialises in assistive technology for people with hearing loss. When you buy from our partnership site, 10% of the cost is donated to RNID.

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Technology to help you hear better

Devices and connectivity options that can send sound directly to your ears.

Hearing aids and implants

A hearing aid or implant could help you hear better. They can be used together with other technologies.

Connecting your hearing device to your smartphone

Most modern hearing aids and implants can connect to your phone to control the device and stream audio.

Assistive listening systems

Systems like hearing loops and Auracast can send sounds directly to your hearing device in public venues like cinemas, theatres and public transport.

Making conversations clearer

Technologies and systems that can help make conversations clearer.

Alerting devices

Technology to alert you to sounds using flashing lights, vibrations, amplified sound, or smartphone alerts.

Smoke alarm systems

Alarm clocks

Doorbells

Baby monitors

Speech-to-text, subtitles and captions

Speech-to-text smartphone apps

Speech-to-text apps transcribe conversations in real time. Find out which apps you can use for your Android or iPhone.

How to use a tablet as a speech-to-text device

Speech-to-text software can help you take part in conversations. Learn how to turn your tablet or iPad into a speech-to-text device.

How to use video captions on social media

Learn how to use captions on Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, X and YouTube.

Phone calls and video meetings

Using your mobile or smartphone

Make the most of existing features on your mobile or smartphone with your hearing aid and other devices.

Using your landline phone

Telephone amplifiers, extension ringers and other assistive devices for making landline calls clearer.

Relay UK

Relay UK can help you talk over the phone using a text to speech relay service.

Accessibility features on video conferencing apps

Zoom, Microsoft Teams and Google Meet have features that make it easier for you to take part in online meetings.

Entertainment

TV, radio and music

There are settings and devices you can use to hear your TV or radio more clearly.

Going to the cinema or theatre

Most cinemas and theatres allow you to connect your hearing aids directly to the sound. There are also subtitled screenings and performances.

Tinnitus

Technology to manage your tinnitus

Types of sound relaxers, apps and software to help you manage your tinnitus.

Get involved to improve assistive technology

RNID partners with organisations to develop, test and improve assistive technologies. Find out how you can get involved.

Join our research panel

Take part in research opportunities to help shape and improve new technologies for people who are deaf, have hearing loss or tinnitus.

Partner with us

We offer support and consultancy for developers and manufacturers working on new technologies. Contact us about your work.

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