Oh yes, Canada! For 85 years, Canadian Hearing Services has supported individuals who are deaf or have a hearing loss. Now it is rolling out Auracast, leading the way in getting the new Bluetooth technology into everyday lives.
The aim is to get Auracast everywhere that people are, and the vision is bigger than just getting it into theatres and concert halls. If it is realised fully, Canada will become one of the first places in the world to have Auracast in ticket booths, classrooms, libraries, and stations as a matter of course.
As far as Aurahear.co.uk is aware, this is the most significant statement of intent yet and will go a long way in helping raise awareness of Auracast and making it part of our daily lives.
The Canadian Hearing Services team can see that Auracast is designed to make business, municipal, and public services more accessible for people who are hard of hearing, while also benefiting others, as Auracast can be transmitted to compatible headphones and earbuds, as well as hearing aids and cochlear implants.
Built on Bluetooth Low Energy (LE) Audio, Auracast allows venues to broadcast live audio from PA systems or service counters. The technology is designed to eliminate barriers created by disparate assistive listening systems, enhancing clarity and inclusivity in public spaces.
Among the early adopters are the Kitchener Public Library, which has implemented Auracast as part of its accessibility initiatives.
David Mason, Strategist for Inclusive Experiences at Kitchener Public Library, is committed to making libraries a space for all.
“Accessibility isn’t an add-on. It’s central to lifelong learning and community wellbeing. Hearing Loops, such as hybrid loop and Auracast systems, at every Kitchener Public Library location makes that commitment real for everyone,” he said.
The Auracast solutions offered in Canada by Canadian Hearing Services
Canadian Hearing Services has launched a range of solutions, and organisations can contact it for a demonstration or consultation.
Among the devices it has in stock is the AuraLoop+, which can be used at service counters, such as a Post Office, a train station or a reception. It offers both Auracast and a telecoil function, meaning it is backwards compatible and future-proof. Additionally, it is quick to set up and fully portable, as it is battery-powered.
The AuraGate and Williams Infinium systems are compatible with existing AV equipment and are suitable for use in meeting rooms, council chambers, classrooms, terminals, and public venues.
It also highlights the Audita III Soundfield System, which has been designed for classrooms with the promise of reducing vocal strain.
As with all Auracast-enabled devices, users can bring their own listening device, such as a preferred pair of headphones, making it more discreet to use.
Canadian Hearing Services’ website says that the solutions it offers are aligned with Canada’s federal and provincial accessibility mandates and universal design principles.
Julia Dumanian, President & Chief Executive Officer of Canadian Hearing Services, said: “With over 85 years of leadership in hearing accessibility, Canadian Hearing Services is proud to be able to bring Auracast to Canada as a practical, scalable way to create barrier-free environments.
“From front-counter service to classrooms and terminals, we are pairing proven next-generation technology with our expert guidance to deliver clearer communication with confidence and care.”
For more details, log on to: https://www.chs.ca/assistive-listening-solutions-auracast
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