Auracast™Broadcast audio for everyone
The new Bluetooth® technology that streams sound from one transmitter straight to an unlimited number of hearing aids, cochlear implants, earbuds and headphones.
What is Auracast™?
Auracast™ broadcast audio is part of Bluetooth® LE Audio, the latest generation of Bluetooth audio from the Bluetooth Special Interest Group (SIG). Normal Bluetooth pairs one phone with one speaker or headset. An Auracast™ transmitter works differently: it broadcasts an audio stream that any number of compatible devices nearby can join – much like tuning in to a radio station or picking a Wi-Fi network.
For people with hearing loss, this is a big step forward. The sound goes directly into their own hearing aids, cochlear implant processors or earbuds, clean and clear, without the background noise and distance that make listening in public places so tiring.
Because it also works with everyday earbuds and headphones, it helps everyone – from travellers listening to gate announcements, to congregations, students and conference delegates, to gym-goers following a silent TV.
Aura by Opus brings Auracast™ to your building, and works alongside the induction loops you already know.
How it works
Connect your sound
An AuraGate connects to your existing PA system, microphone, 100 V line, S/PDIF or USB-C audio. Nothing else in the room needs to change.
Broadcast the stream
The audio goes out as a named Auracast™ stream (e.g. “Main Hall”). You choose whether it is open to everyone or protected with an access code.
Listeners tune in
People scan a QR code, choose the stream on their phone or hearing-aid app, or pick up an AuraSTRX receiver. Then they listen on their own device.
What it can do
Unlimited listeners
There is no pairing limit. One transmitter can serve a meeting room, a departure gate or a whole auditorium.
Several streams at once
Run broadcasts side by side, for example different languages, different TVs or different rooms. Listeners simply choose the one they want.
Public or private
Use open broadcasts for public venues, or encrypted (AES-CCM) streams with an access code for meetings and confidential conversations.
Easy to join
Listeners scan a QR code, pick the stream name in their phone settings, or use the AuraSTRX touchscreen. No apps to buy and no hardware to pair.
Clear, in-sync sound
The LC3 codec delivers high-quality speech and music at 16, 24 or 48 kHz, with around 30 ms latency, so voices stay in sync with lips on screen.
Works with hearing loops
Opus hybrid products broadcast Auracast™ and drive an induction loop at the same time, so people using the T (telecoil) setting are never left out.
Devices it connects with
Auracast™ is an open Bluetooth® standard, so it is not tied to one brand. Support is growing fast. Look for the Auracast™ logo or “LE Audio” on the device.
Hearing aids & cochlear implants
Newer LE Audio hearing aids and implant sound processors from leading makers such as ReSound, Oticon and Starkey can receive Auracast™. Some models need a firmware update, so it is worth asking your audiologist.
Smartphones & tablets
Recent Android phones, such as Google Pixel (Android 16) and Samsung Galaxy (One UI 7 and later), can find and join broadcasts. They can also act as a remote control for hearing aids. At the time of writing, iPhone does not yet join Auracast™ natively; an AuraSTRX receiver bridges the gap.
Earbuds & headphones
LE Audio earbuds and headphones that carry the Auracast™ logo, from brands such as Samsung and JBL, can listen in directly. No hearing loss is needed to benefit.
TVs & computers
New TVs from brands like Samsung and LG, and Windows 11 PCs, are adding Auracast™ sharing. This is ideal for waiting rooms, bars and gyms where the screen is on mute.
AuraSTRX receivers
A pocket receiver with a 2.8″ touchscreen and QR reader. Plug in any wired headphones, or a neckloop for hearing aids in T mode. It gives up to 50 hours of listening (screen off).
Telecoil (T-mode) users
Older hearing aids without Bluetooth still hear clearly through an induction loop. This is why hybrid AuraLoop and HMD systems cover both.
Regulations & standards
Assistive listening is a legal and practical requirement in many buildings and products in Ireland and across the EU. Here is how Auracast™ and hearing loops fit in.
Part M – TGD M 2022
This applies to works starting on or after 1 January 2024. Reception areas should have a hearing enhancement system, for example an audio-frequency induction loop, with clear signage showing it is there (para. 1.3.3.1). Section 1.6.6 gives guidance on audible aids in buildings other than dwellings.
European Accessibility Act
Directive (EU) 2019/882 is Irish law through S.I. No. 636 of 2023. Self-service terminals that use audio, such as ticket machines, check-in kiosks and payment terminals, must allow personal headsets. They must also be compatible with hearing technologies, including hearing aids, telecoils, cochlear implants and assistive listening devices.
IEC 60118-4
This is the performance standard for audio-frequency induction loop systems. Loops should be designed, commissioned and tested to it. Opus HMD amplifiers include a built-in pink-noise and 1 kHz generator for commissioning.
Auracast™ qualification
Auracast™ is defined by the Bluetooth SIG’s LE Audio specifications, including the Public Broadcast Profile. Opus AuraLoop, AurOEM and Aura-CA are Bluetooth SIG qualified, so they work with any compliant Auracast™ receiver.
Why we recommend hybrid: loop + Auracast™
Irish guidance still names the induction loop as the example hearing enhancement system, and many hearing-aid users rely on the telecoil. Auracast™ adds a modern layer on top that reaches far more people. The safest, most inclusive choice today is both. As Opus puts it: “Don’t choose one solution over another, choose both!”
This summary is general guidance only. Requirements depend on the building and the project, so contact us for advice on your installation.
Where it is used
The Aura by Opus range
Opus Technologies has over 10 years of experience in hearing assistance. Their Aura range covers everything from a single counter to a full venue, and we supply, install and commission it across Ireland.
AuraGate
The Auracast™ broadcast terminal. Mic/line, 100 V, S/PDIF and USB-C inputs, up to 100 m range in open field, and USB-C or PoE power. Available in white or black.
AuraSTRX
A pocket Auracast™ receiver and transmitter with touchscreen and QR reader. Use it with headphones or a neckloop, or as a tour-guide transmitter.
AuraLoop
A portable hybrid unit: induction loop plus Auracast™ in one. It suits reception desks, counters and one-to-one meetings, and runs about 5 hours on battery.
HMD1.2
A two-channel induction loop amplifier for rooms up to 100 m² (150 m² with the 32 V supply). It is Auracast™-ready, and the HMD1.2A has Auracast™ built in.
Aura-CA
A ready-to-install Auracast™ transmitter kit. It adds broadcasting to existing audio systems, and is the plug-in Auracast™ upgrade for Opus HMD loop amplifiers.
AurOEM
A tiny, Bluetooth SIG qualified Auracast™ module for building broadcasting into kiosks, intercoms, displays and active speakers.
Planning an Auracast™ or hearing loop system?
Our engineers design, supply, install and commission assistive listening systems across Ireland, and we can survey your site.
Auracast™ and the Bluetooth® word mark are trademarks of Bluetooth SIG, Inc. Product information is from Opus Technologies datasheets.