Auracast: A Revolution in Bluetooth Audio Broadcasting

There is a strong chance that anyone reading this owns at least one Bluetooth-enabled device. Bluetooth has revolutionized the way we listen to music and wirelessly transmit data between cell phones, car stereos, personal computers, wearable tech, and more recently, assistive listening devices for the hard of hearing. First introduced in 1998, Bluetooth has become ubiquitous in short range wireless audio transmission due to its low cost and high quality, allowing manufacturers of professional and consumer devices to communicate brand-agnostically. Managed by the Bluetooth Special Interest Group (a non-profit group of over 35,000 member companies), Bluetooth technology has undergone many changes over the years, but none as significant as the latest development called Auracast.

Most people are generally familiar with pairing traditional Bluetooth devices and how to operate them. In the standard process, the two Bluetooth devices perform a digital “hand-shake” and start sharing data via the connection, which is a one-to-one link. However, devices using Auracast will no longer be limited to this single pairing. An Auracast broadcasting device will have the ability to transmit to an indefinite number of receivers, similar to how a radio station transmits a signal.

For context, imagine a setting where an otherwise silent video display comes to life with the scan of a QR code, instantly tuning your headphones to the associated audio. Some examples might include, for example:

• Stadium or other live event where you could get a live feed of the game play, or provide multi-language support
• Gym, airport, sports bar, or similar public space, where you can easily access the audio from a TV
• A museum, where audio associated with an exhibit can be easily accessible without disrupting patrons at an adjacent exhibit space

Other use cases include translation services, group tours, or even simply sharing audio with friends from your personal computer, making it possible to enjoy a movie with friends in public without disturbing those around you. For public events, Auracast could also be an alternative way for the media to access a record feed wirelessly, reducing the complexities of locating a press box with available outputs, and simplifying coordinating wireless frequencies with the production team.

With respect to the assistive listening industry, Auracast is also poised to have a significant impact and is already widely adopted by many manufacturers. Presently, the four main technologies used for transmitting audio for these types of systems include induction loop, infrared (IR), radio frequency (RF), and Wi-Fi. Each offers unique characteristics that must be considered when designing an Assistive Listening System (ALS). For example, IR and RF systems require the user to obtain a paired receiving device from a staff member, and Wi-Fi systems typically require the user to download and configure an app on their phone. Currently, induction loop systems provide the simplest interface for those with equipped hearing aids and cochlear implants, however adoption in the United States is not as widespread due to a high up-front cost, and complexity of the design/installation.

By contrast, Auracast offers a cost effective and scalable solution that allows users to easily pair their personal hearing device with the Assistive Listening System, eliminating barriers and providing users with a familiar, high-quality, ADA compliant solution. There are several ways a user can listen to an Auracast stream. The most basic way would be by selecting the appropriate stream in the same way you would choose which Wi-Fi network to connect to. It is also possible to scan a QR code or tap an NFC device that will effortlessly connect you to an Auracast broadcast. ALS manufacturers have just begun shipping Auracast solutions, and as hearing aid users upgrade their devices (typically replaced every 3-7 years) this technology is expected to become a widely requested feature among the hard of hearing.

This disruptive technology will enable a more streamlined audio experience for users in many different settings. As manufacturers release products that implement the new Auracast Bluetooth standard, people will benefit from higher audio quality, longer battery life, and increased range, as well as a simpler pairing process. Even though this technology is brand new, you may already own devices that could work with Auracast. Go to the Auracast website to see current manufactured devices supporting Auracast maintained by the Bluetooth SIG. Although there is still work to be done as the industry defines its integration strategy, Auracast is positioned to reshape our engagement with audio in meaningful ways.