Quick take: Your hearing aids are tiny computers. Like your phone, they get updates—some magical, some meh, and a few that are better to delay until after your niece’s wedding toast. This guide shows you what updates actually do, how to install them safely, and how to tell if they truly improved your hearing day-to-day.
First things first: What counts as an "update"?
There are two moving parts here:
- Firmware updates: Software inside the hearing aid itself. These can change stability, Bluetooth behavior, battery management, or even the sound-processing engine (noise reduction, directionality, feedback control). Some install via the clinic’s fitting software, others over-the-air through the manufacturer’s app.
- App updates: The smartphone app you use to control volume, programs, or remote care. App updates can add features, fix connection bugs, change permissions, and enable new compatibility (for example, with Android or iOS updates).
Good news: Firmware updates usually preserve your audiologist’s fitting profile (your prescription), although they may reset user-level preferences like favorite programs or button assignments. When in doubt, ask your audiologist to export or screenshot your current settings.
What updates can actually change in your hearing aids?
Behind the friendly "stability improvements" line in release notes, a lot may be happening. Common areas that firmware updates refine:
- Bluetooth connectivity: Fewer dropouts, faster reconnection, better dual-device switching, and preparation for LE Audio or Auracast compatibility on supported models.
- Battery performance: Smarter charging curves for rechargeable models, more accurate battery percentage display, and improved power management under heavy streaming.
- Noise handling: Tweaks to beamforming (directional microphones), noise reduction aggressiveness, and wind management. These can subtly change how speech pops out in restaurants or outdoors.
- Feedback control: Better whistle suppression can allow more stable gain at certain frequencies—handy if your fit recently changed or you added a mask or glasses.
- Accessory support: Compatibility with new remote microphones, TV streamers, or watch integrations.
- Data logging and remote care: More accurate time-in-noise readings and smoother telehealth sessions.
One thing updates typically don’t change automatically: your prescribed targets (gain, compression) that were set during fitting. If a major sound-processing feature is added, your audiologist may offer a fine-tune or new program so you can actually benefit.
Update now or wait? A smart decision tree
Think like a pilot, not a daredevil. Here’s when to jump in—and when to pause.
Strong reasons to update now
- Critical bug fix: The notes explicitly mention fixing frequent Bluetooth dropouts, random reboots, or charging failures you’re experiencing.
- Security patch: Manufacturers sometimes close wireless vulnerabilities. It’s rare—but important.
- Compatibility need: You just upgraded your phone/OS or bought a new accessory and the update enables proper pairing.
- Remote care request: Your audiologist recommends an update to support telehealth or a specific feature you want.
Reasons to wait a week or two
- Big event coming: Wedding, presentation, travel—delay any major update until after.
- Major version jump: If the update looks like a big leap (new feature suite), let early adopters test the waters and scan user forums for hiccups.
- No clear benefit to you: If the notes focus on features you won’t use, it’s fine to hold.
Pro tip: With binaural streaming, keep both hearing aids on the same firmware version. Mismatches can create oddities with sync or mic directionality.
Your fail-safe update checklist
Five minutes of prep prevents forty minutes of frustration.
- Charge everything: Put rechargeable aids in a case at 100% or on the charger. Phone above 50%.
- Stable connection: Update on reliable Wi‑Fi. Keep the phone next to the aids.
- App first, then firmware: Update the manufacturer’s app from your app store before starting firmware.
- Save your setup: Note your favorite programs, tap controls, and button presses. Screenshots help.
- Permissions check (app): Enable Bluetooth, Nearby Devices/Location (Android), and local network permissions if requested. Disable aggressive battery optimization for the app.
- Quiet time: Start when you can be still for 10–20 minutes. Don’t answer calls mid-update.
If an update stalls, don’t panic. See “Troubleshooting a failed update” below.
How to read release notes like a pro
Manufacturers write release notes a bit… diplomatically. Here’s what common phrases may mean in practice:
- “Improved speech understanding in noise”: Fine-tuning beamforming or noise reduction. Expect clearer consonants in steady noise, but also check that the sound doesn’t feel “pumpy” or dull.
- “Stability improvements”: Bluetooth handshake and reconnection tweaks. Fewer dropouts when switching rooms or apps.
- “Enhanced battery performance”: More accurate battery estimates or reduced power use during streaming.
- “Expanded accessory support”: New remote mics or TV streamers now work—or work better.
- “Improved wind management”: Useful for walkers, cyclists, and golfers; less whoosh, more words.
If the notes are vague and you rely heavily on a particular feature (e.g., tap controls for phone calls, a table microphone at work), ask your audiologist or manufacturer support if that area changed.
Did the update help? Simple ways to verify
Make it measurable and you’ll know whether to keep the change or ask for a tweak.
- Pick two real-world scenes: A favorite cafe and your TV room. Before the update, jot down quick impressions (clarity, effort, dropouts, battery percent after a typical hour). Repeat after the update.
- Count dropouts: Note any disconnects per day for three days before vs. after.
- Battery check: Compare end-of-day percentage across two similar days.
- Speech test at home: Read out loud facing a noisy fan, then off-axis; note clarity and comfort. Consistency beats perfection.
If you hear a change in comfort or clarity, schedule a brief follow-up. Your audiologist can fine-tune the updated features and confirm targets with real-ear measures.
App updates, OS changes, and permissions that secretly matter
Many “my aids won’t connect” complaints trace back to phone settings, not the aids.
- iOS: In Settings → Privacy & Security → Bluetooth, ensure your hearing aid app is on. If you use Made for iPhone (MFi), check Settings → Accessibility → Hearing Devices.
- Android: In Settings → Apps → [Your HA App] → Permissions, allow Bluetooth/Nearby Devices and Location. Disable battery optimization for the app and allow it to “run in background.”
- Watch/wearables: If you stream via a watch, keep its OS updated and confirm it’s supported by your aid/app version.
- LE Audio toggles: As phones and aids adopt Bluetooth LE Audio, new switches may appear. If your model supports it and you’ve updated firmware, enabling it can improve sound or battery life; if you notice issues, try toggling off and retest.
Privacy tip: Many apps offer opt-in data sharing to improve features. Skim the privacy section; choose what you’re comfortable with.
Security and safety: Why boring patches matter
Connected medical devices get periodic security hardening. While security issues in hearing aids are rare, keeping firmware current reduces risk and maintains compatibility with phones as they tighten Bluetooth and background access. Treat security patches as “update now” items.
Preparing for big transitions (without the hype)
Some updates quietly unlock new pathways—like elements of LE Audio or compatibility with upcoming public broadcast systems. If your clinic mentions a feature you want, verify that your exact model, your phone, and your accessories all support it together. A single mismatched link can block the upgrade.
Clinician corner: Partner with your audiologist
Your provider sees how updates behave across many patients and devices. Lean on that pattern recognition:
- Ask for timing advice: “Is this update solid for my model?”
- Schedule a quick check-in: A 15-minute remote or in-clinic visit can optimize the new features and confirm your programs didn’t change in unintended ways.
- Bring data: Share your pre/post impressions, battery screenshots, or dropout notes. You and your audiologist become a test team—and you win.
If you use OTC self-fitting devices, many of the same principles apply. For complex changes in comfort or clarity, a consultation with an audiologist can save you weeks of trial-and-error.
Troubleshooting a failed update (deep breath, you’ve got this)
- Restart sequence: Close the app, reboot your phone, power-cycle your hearing aids (open/close battery door or out/in charging case).
- Re-pair carefully: Forget/remove the aids in Bluetooth settings and inside the app, then pair again following the manufacturer’s steps.
- Try another device: If you have a second phone or tablet, install the app and attempt the update there.
- Stable power: Ensure aids are charged and on the charger if recommended.
- Clinic rescue: If over-the-air fails repeatedly, your audiologist can usually update via fitting software and verify integrity.
Avoid factory resets unless your clinic advises it—resets can erase custom setups that are tedious to rebuild without the fitting file.
Musicians and latency-sensitive listeners: Test before the gig
Firmware can subtly change processing latency or the balance between mics and streamed audio. If you sing, play an instrument, or rely on lip-reading, do a quick rehearsal after any update. If timing feels off, your audiologist may adjust mic mixing, program settings, or recommend a specific streaming path.
The bottom line
Updates can be quiet heroes—sharpening speech in noise, preventing Bluetooth hiccups, and smoothing battery use. But timing and preparation matter. Read the notes, prep your devices, measure what changes, and loop in your audiologist for a quick tune. That’s how you turn “another update?” into “wow, that sounds better.”
Gentle nudge: If you’re unsure about an update on your specific model—or if your hearing comfort changes afterward—book a check-in with an audiologist. Personalized support beats guesswork every time.
Further Reading
- Your Hearing Aids Are Taking Notes: Turn Datalogging Into Better Everyday Hearing (Technology) - Self‑Fitting Hearing Aids, Demystified: How OTC Tech Tunes to Your Ears (and When to Get Help) (Technology) - OTC Hearing Aids, Done Right: Self‑Fit, Save, and Know When to Get Help (Hearing Aids) - Update Your Ears: Firmware, Apps, and Privacy for Smarter Hearing Aids (Technology)Frequently Asked Questions
Will a firmware update change my hearing aid prescription?
Typically no. Firmware updates usually preserve your fitting targets (gain and compression) set by your audiologist. They may reset user-level preferences (manual programs, button functions). If the update adds a new processing mode, your audiologist might create or fine-tune a program so you benefit from it.
How often should I check for hearing aid updates?
A practical rhythm is every 1–3 months, or whenever you notice problems (dropouts, charging quirks) or update your phone’s OS. Many apps notify you automatically. For major updates, ask your audiologist if they recommend installing right away or waiting a week.
Can updates drain my battery faster?
Most aim to maintain or improve battery life. After installing, compare a couple of similar days. If you see a consistent drop (more than a few percent), check app permissions and background settings first, then contact your audiologist or manufacturer support.
What if a firmware update fails mid-way?
Stay calm. Charge the aids, reboot your phone, power-cycle the aids, and try again next to the charger with solid Wi‑Fi. If it still fails, remove and re-pair the aids in both Bluetooth settings and the app. Your audiologist can usually complete the update in-clinic with fitting software.
