English English Since the launch of our newest product, Auri™, a new Auracast™ broadcast audio-based assistive listening system developed by Listen Technologies and Ampetronic, a common question we get asked is: “Will Auri™ replace other assistive listening systems?”
The simple answer is no.
Auri™ is not intended to replace other systems; it’s about providing more choices and better accessibility by offering the right solution for each unique environment. Just as no two venues are the same, no single assistive listening system can perfectly meet every need. Auri™ represents the next evolution in inclusive audio, but it’s not a one-size-fits-all replacement. Instead, it’s another powerful tool in the growing toolbox of assistive listening technologies.
What Is Auri™?
Auri™ is the first Auracast™ broadcast audio-based solution for assistive listening. Auri™ is the first complete solution to let venues and end users adopt Auracast™ broadcast audio technology for assistive listening in public spaces.
What makes Auri™ stand out is its simplicity and flexibility. It operates within a venue existing infrastructure, making it easy to deploy and scale. It also offers low-latency, high-quality audio with the option of multi-language support.
The Role of Assistive Listening Systems
Assistive listening systems help people with hearing loss or other auditory challenges clearly hear and understand spoken content in noisy or acoustically challenging environments. These systems are not all the same; each has distinct features, benefits, and best-use scenarios.
Let’s explore the different assistive listening systems available and where Auri™ fits in.
The Role Auri™ Plays in the Assistive Listening Technology
Rather than replacing existing systems, Auri™ adds another powerful option to the spectrum of assistive listening solutions. It brings the benefits of next-generation Bluetooth® broadcasting to the world of audio accessibility.
That said, Auri™ is not a fit for every venue or application. The Auracast™ standard is still gaining adoption. While more devices are becoming Auracast™-compatible, not every user can access them. For that reason, many venues will choose to install Auri™ alongside other assistive listening systems or opt for a different solution altogether based on their current needs and audience.
Let’s look at the other types of assistive listening systems and how they compare.
Hearing Loops: Great Simplicity for Hearing Aid Users
Hearing loops, also known as induction loops, transmit sound directly to telecoil-equipped hearing aids and cochlear implants. They are incredibly easy to use for those with compatible hearing devices; users simply walk into a loop-equipped space and activate their telecoil enabled hearing aid or cochlear implant or dedicated receiver.
Hearing loops are especially well-suited for spaces like houses of worship, theaters, courtrooms, and public meeting rooms, where fixed seating and defined boundaries support effective installation. One recent example of a use case of hearing loop is at the Sydney Opera House.
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ListenRF: Broad Coverage and Flexibility
ListenRF uses radio waves to transmit audio to receivers. Because of its wide coverage range and scalability, it’s a go-to solution for large venues, including stadiums, arenas, and conference centers. Our ListenRF systems support multiple audio channels, especially in environments with multiple presentations or simultaneous language translation.
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ListenIR: Secure and Targeted
ListenIR uses light waves to transmit audio, which requires a clear line of sight between the transmitter and receiver. This technology is well-suited for secure or confidential settings such as courtrooms, boardrooms, or medical environments.
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ListenWIFI: Seamless Audio Over Wi-Fi
ListenWIFI provides audio streaming over a venue’s Wi-Fi network directly to guests’ smartphones or tablets using a free, customizable app. This approach delivers clear, low-latency audio and allows users to listen with their own devices and headphones, eliminating the need to borrow dedicated receivers.
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ListenTALK: Portable, Two-Way Communication and Assistive Listening
ListenTALK is a portable, wireless communication system that goes beyond traditional assistive listening. With the simple push of a button, users can speak and listen within secure, private groups, making ListenTALK perfect for guided tours, training sessions, team collaboration, and interpretation services.
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Future-Proofing Accessibility
The landscape of assistive listening is evolving, and Auri™ represents an exciting new chapter. Still, traditional systems will not go away any time soon. They’re well-established, widely supported, and, in many cases, still sometimes the best fit for a venue’s infrastructure and audience.
The future is likely to be hybrid. Venues may install Auri™ alongside hearing loops to offer both traditional telecoil access and Bluetooth® audio. Or they may also use ListenIR and Auri™ in smaller rooms or breakout areas. The key is to find the right solution for the right space.
Conclusion: Auri™ Expands the Options but Doesn’t Replace Them
So does Auri™ replace other assistive listening systems?
No, and that’s a good thing.
Auri™ adds to the choices available to venue operators and users alike. It introduces a modern, user-friendly way to access assistive audio while coexisting with proven solutions like Hearing Loop, ListenRF, ListenIR, ListenWIFI, or ListenTALK. The best system is the one that meets your audience’s needs, suits your space, and supports your accessibility goals.
If you’re designing or upgrading an assistive listening system, talk to one of our experts. Contact us today to find the perfect solution for your venue needs.
The Bluetooth® word mark and logos are registered trademarks owned by Bluetooth SIG, Inc. The Auracast™ word mark and logos are trademarks owned by Bluetooth SIG, Inc. Any use of such marks by Listen Technologies Corporation is under license. Other trademarks and trade names are those of their respective owners.
