Radio Frequency Hearing Assistance
FM Systems Are Being Discontinued: Say Hello to Auracast, the New Standard in Assistive Audio
For decades, FM systems have played a major role in assistive listening. They helped students hear teachers more clearly, supported people in noisy environments, and offered a dependable way to deliver speech directly to a listener’s device. But as technology continues to evolve, the industry is finally moving past the limits of FM transmission.
FM systems are now being discontinued, and a new technology is taking the spotlight: Auracast. If you have relied on FM receivers or transmitters in the past, this shift is important to understand. The good news is that Auracast is more than a replacement. It is a major upgrade that opens the door to clearer sound, easier access, and more flexible listening experiences.
Why FM Is Ending
FM has served us well, but it has clear limitations. Interference, channel management, bulky receivers, and limited compatibility have all made FM systems increasingly impractical. As wireless technology has advanced, FM has simply not kept pace with the expectations of modern users.
Manufacturers and service providers are shifting their focus toward new digital platforms that offer better sound quality, greater stability, and a more inclusive listening experience. This is where Auracast comes in.
What Is Auracast
Auracast is a new broadcast audio feature built on Bluetooth LE Audio. It allows audio to be shared to an unlimited number of compatible devices in real time. Listeners can tune in using hearing aids, earbuds, headphones, or other Auracast enabled receivers. Instead of using a single proprietary device, users can choose from a wide ecosystem of supported technology.
Auracast is designed to deliver clear, low-latency sound while providing greater freedom in how people connect. Imagine walking into a classroom, auditorium, airport, gym, or church and simply selecting the audio stream you want. No special receiver. No fragile hardware. No frequency issues. That is the future Auracast promises.
Learn more about Auracast
Check out our Auri Studio Page
The Benefits of Moving to Auracast
Better audio quality
Digital sound provides more clarity and consistency compared to traditional FM transmission.
More accessibility
People can use their own devices instead of relying on loaned equipment. This makes listening more comfortable and more discreet.
Less interference
Auracast avoids the static and disruption that often affect FM systems.
Greater flexibility
Venues can broadcast multiple audio streams at once, and listeners can choose the one they need.
Future ready
Major manufacturers are investing in Auracast, which means ongoing updates, support, and improvements as the technology grows.