For people with hearing loss, it can be frustrating to watch TV shows and movies without subtitles or captions. While closed captions are available for many streaming services, it’s not always an ideal solution. Now, Amazon Fire TV is taking a step forward by offering direct streaming to hearing implants.
This new feature, available through the Audio Accessibility Settings of the Fire TV, works with compatible hearing devices such as cochlear implants and bone conduction devices. Once you pair your hearing device with your Fire TV, you can choose to stream the audio directly to your device. This means you can listen to the audio from your favorite TV shows and movies without the need for closed captions or relying on the TV’s volume.
Amazon has worked closely with hearing implant manufacturers such as Cochlear, Advanced Bionics, and the Phonak Audéo Marvel to ensure compatibility with their devices. The feature has already been rolled out to customers in the United States and will soon be available in other countries.
In addition to the new direct streaming feature, the Fire TV also offers other accessibility features such as closed captions, subtitles, and audio descriptions for people with visual impairments. These features make streaming content more accessible and inclusive for everyone.
The new feature is a significant step forward in making entertainment more accessible to people with hearing loss. It not only offers an alternative to closed captions but also provides a more personalized listening experience. As technology continues to advance, it’s essential that companies prioritize accessibility in their products and services. Features such as this help make streaming content more inclusive and accessible to a wider audience, which is a positive step forward.