Reply Comments Urge FCC to Adopt Recommendations in 2022 Report

Replies to a December FCC NPRM on implementing a 100% hearing-aid compatibility (HAC) requirement for wireless handset models largely tracked initial comments (see 2402270066). Replies were posted this week in docket 23-388. The Mobile & Wireless Forum called on the FCC to adopt the HAC Task Force’s recommendations contained in a December 2022 report (see 2212160063). “The work of the Task Force -- which was operating at the behest of the FCC -- reflects the hard-fought consensus reached among the stakeholders and should be respected,” the forum said: “FCC should adhere to the consensus reached by the Task Force wherever possible.” CTIA saw broad agreement in support of the task force report. The record confirms the importance of including “modern and mainstream Bluetooth technology as part of the deployment benchmarks to achieve 100% HAC,” CTIA said. Commenters also agree that “consistent with past practice and to prevent consumer confusion” the FCC should “grandfather handsets previously tested and certified to a HAC standard.” Following "hundreds of hours of tests, surveys, and discussion,” the task force report “represents the best and smoothest [path] towards achieving a universal goal: providing the best technologies and choice to those experiencing hearing loss,” said the Competitive Carriers Association. Current recommendations are “the result of broad stakeholder consensus and are consistent with the Commission’s goals and the public interest,” CCA said. The record confirms the importance of using digital labeling technology, “rather than printed labels and paper inserts,” to provide access to HAC information, said CTA. It encouraged the FCC to promote competition, “rather than adopting a top-down regulatory approach for Bluetooth-connected hearing aids, as suggested by some.” In addition, the Bluetooth Special Interest Group supported adoption of the report's recommendations. There is no indication that the task force’s consensus recommendations “will directly impact or burden the consumer while seeking to achieve 100% HAC,” the group said. “Nearly 100% of all mobile phones, tablets, and PCs currently support some form of Bluetooth technology coupling for audio-related peripherals.”