Connecting to an Auracast stream is designed to feel as familiar as joining a Wi-Fi network. There are three primary ways to do it, depending on your device and the venue’s setup.
Auracast is different to previous Bluetooth technology: the older setup sent the Bluetooth signal from the device to a connecting device and then on to the listening device.
With Auracast, the Assistant app merely tells the listening device that a transmission is available: the audio goes directly between transmitter and receiver.
This is a better connection as it cuts out the middle man, and reduces latency (the time it takes a signal to reach the recipient device), so it is closer to real-time: in everyday life, this means people listening to an Auracast should be able to lipread as there is no discernible lag.
The “Wi-Fi Style” Search (Android and Windows)
For users with modern Android phones (typically version 15, 16 or 17 (Beta)), the process is integrated into your Bluetooth settings.
1. Swipe down to open your Quick Settings and long-press the Bluetooth icon.
2. Look for an option labeled “Audio Sharing” or “Broadcast Audio.”
3. Your phone will scan for nearby streams. You will see a list of names like “Gym TV 1” or “Gate B24 Announcements.”
4. Tap the name of the stream. If it’s a private stream, you may be asked for a password or PIN which is often provided on a nearby screen or poster, or staff at the venue will be able to advise.
5. Once “Joined”, the audio will flow directly to your connected LE Audio earbuds or hearing aids.
Method 2: The QR Code Scan
This will be the easiest method for many.
1. Open your phone’s Camera app.
2. Point it at the Auracast QR code displayed at the venue.
3. A notification will pop up asking if you want to “Join Audio Stream”.
4. Tap the notification. Your phone acts as the Assistant, handing off the connection to your hearing aids or headphones. You can then put your phone away; the audio stays connected.
Method 3: The Auracast Assistant App
If your phone doesn’t yet have native support, many hearing aid manufacturers (such as GN ReSound, Oticon, or Starkey) offer an Auracast Assistant within their own app.
1. Open your hearing aid’s control app (e.g., ReSound Smart 3D, Oticon’s Companion).
2. Navigate to the “Streaming” or “Search for Broadcast” menu.
3. Select the venue’s stream from the list. This app-based method is currently the most reliable way for iOS users to access Auracast until Apple integrates it fully into the Control Centre.
Method 4: Dedicated Receivers
If you don’t have a compatible phone or earbuds, many venues provide a small “Auracast Receiver” (like the Auri RX1). These look like small MP3 players.
You simply plug your old wired headphones into the 3.5mm jack, use the device’s buttons to select the channel (which you can see on its small screen), and you are ready to listen.
Alternatively, for hearing aid users with Telecoils, they can borrow a neckloop and have their own personal hearing loop. We have tested this and can confirm it works.
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