What you need to know
- Google is exploring adding Google Fast Pair support for hearing aids in a future update.
- Work-in-progress code in a Google Play Services beta revealed hearing aids in the list of Fast Pair supported device types.
- Hearing aids are typically Bluetooth LEA devices, which are not currently supported by Google Fast Pair.
Google may soon simplify the process of connecting hearing aids to your Android phone. After expanding hearing aid support in Android 15, indications suggest that the company is looking into Google Fast Pair support for hearing aids. Clues found by Android Authority hint at the functionality being developed, which would streamline the connection of hearing aids to an Android phone, similar to pairing earbuds.
The work-in-progress code was discovered in the Google Play Services 24.50.32 beta. The fast_pair_enable_hearing_aid_pairing code string suggests that Google is working on Fast Pair for hearing aids. Additionally, a screenshot below shared by Android Authority shows hearing aids in the list of supported Google Fast Pair device types while running the Google Play Services beta.
The distinction between hearing aids and Bluetooth earbuds is diminishing. For instance, Apple recently added hearing aid functionality to the AirPods Pro 2, making them one of the most affordable FDA-approved over-the-counter hearing aids. However, there are significant differences in how operating systems like Android 15 handle hearing aids compared to Bluetooth earbuds.
Most hearing aids use a Bluetooth Low Energy Audio (LEA) protocol, which differs from standard Bluetooth. This allows hearing aids to deliver clear and responsive sound while conserving battery life. The code strings uncovered in the latest Google Play Services beta suggest that Google Fast Pair may soon support Bluetooth LEA devices such as hearing aids.
If this feature is included in a future Android update, it would further enhance the accessibility of technology. With more than 1.5 billion people worldwide living with hearing loss according to the World Health Organization, big tech companies have the opportunity to improve usability for users.