Resources

EssilorLuxottica’s Nuance Audio Glasses recently received clearance from the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and the European Union. These glasses are now available at EssilorLuxottica retail outlets and through the Nuance Audio website . Nuance Audio Glasses integrate over-the-counter (OTC) hearing aids into eyewear, for individuals with perceived mild to moderate hearing loss. They…

The European Federation of Hard of Hearing People (EFHOH) and the International Hearing Loops Manufacturers Association (IHLMA) hosted a webinar series examining the role of Assistive Listening Systems (ALS) in improving accessibility for individuals with hearing loss. In this recorded session, a panel of speakers was invited to present the benefits, challenges, and future potential of ALS,…

The Bluetooth Special Interest Group provides a centralized Auracast™ Product Listing where manufacturers list qualified products enabled with Auracast™ technology . It includes product names, companies, and roles (e.g., receivers or transmitters). Member companies can submit their products for listing through a submission link. This tool helps users easily identify Auracast-enabled products…

Throughout the month of August, the U.S. Access Board held a series of public hearings on the impact of artificial intelligence (AI) on people with disabilities. On August 8, two hearings (in the morning and afternoon) were held to hear from members of the disability community. Additionally, a panel of speakers delivered remarks on the risks, benefits, and potential of artificial intelligence with…

The U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) released a video highlighting the federal infrastructure package and how it will improve access to public transportation and air travel for people with disabilities. The video includes captions and American Sign Language interpretation, and features, among others, Matt Scott, a five-time Paralympian and gold medalist; Dr. Anjali Forber-Pratt, a two-time…

The Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) is divided into five sections, which are known as titles. These five titles describe the rights of people with disabilities and the responsibilities of governments, businesses, and organizations covered by the law. What happens when someone believes the law was violated? Several federal agencies enforce the ADA. The agency responsible for responding to a…

On September 9, 2024, Apple Inc announced hearing health features coming to AirPods Pro 2, which provide the world’s first all-in-one hearing health experience including a clinical-grade, over-the-counter Hearing Aid feature. Included in these new features is Hearing Protection to help users prevent exposure to loud environmental noise while preserving the sound signature of what they’re listening…

On September 10, 2024, the FCC announced that survivors of domestic abuse can get discounted phone, internet, or bundled services through the FCC’s Lifeline program. Survivors can now make a request with their service provider to separate their mobile phone lines from family plans where the abuser is on the account. Impacted survivors experiencing financial hardship can also receive up to six…

EEOC v. Smith’s Detection Inc., Case No. 1:24-cv-2510 in the U.S. District Court for the District of Maryland, Baltimore Division. The agency filed against Smith’s Detection, Inc., a leading manufacturer of threat detection equipment, for demoting a disabled employee to avoid providing her with personal protective equipment (PPE). The employee, who suffered from complete hearing loss in her left…

The World Hearing Forum at the World Health Organization is a global network of stakeholders promoting ear and hearing care worldwide. Members of this advocacy network are committed to facilitate the implementation of World Health Assembly resolution WHA70.13 on “Prevention of deafness and hearing loss” and support the Member States in this regard. Over 430 million people require rehabilitation to…