Compatible Cell Phones

Handsets that receive a compatibility rating of M3 or M4 have met (M3) or surpassed (M4) the ANSI compatibility standard for hearing devices as adopted by the Federal Communications Commission (FCC). The higher the M-rating the handset has the lower the radio frequency emissions level and higher signal quality the handset will have. If there is no M-rating, the handset does not meet the ANSI standard. The handset’s M-rating will assist customers in finding a handset that will work best for them. The M rating evaluated phones with the hearing device in microphone mode.

As of September 15, 2006, several cellular providers have included at least two handsets that meet the ANSI Telecoil standard. Handsets that receive a telecoil rating of a T3 or T4 have met (T3) or surpassed (T4) the required standard as adopted by the FCC. Handsets below were those available in the local area. Information about compatibility with hearing devices (HAC) can be found on the cellular providers websites or in their retail stores. Check the details under each handset for information about the HAC rating. We recommend that you test all handsets in the stores prior to buying. Please remember that everyone's hearing loss is different and what works for one person may not work for another.