Guide to Pairing Starkey Hearing Aids with Smartphones, TV and More

Pairing Starkey Hearing Aids: A Guide to Connectivity

Starkey hearing aids are designed to provide clear, natural sound and seamless wireless connectivity. With several models featuring Bluetooth technology, Starkey makes it easy to pair hearing aids to smartphones, televisions, and other devices for amplified, streaming audio.

Understanding the pairing process for your specific Starkey hearing aids ensures you utilize their full capabilities. Knowing which accessories work with Starkey models also allows you to create an optimal hearing ecosystem.

Starkey Hearing Aid Models and Connectivity

Here is an overview of Starkey's current hearing aid models and their wireless connectivity options:

• Livio AI - Starkey's most advanced model has embedded sensors and artificial intelligence. It can connect directly to iOS/Android phones and transmit phone calls and streaming audio via Bluetooth.
• Livio - Similar capabilities as Livio AI but without AI. Connects to phones, media and Starkey's TV transmitter for wireless TV audio.
• Livio Edge AI - Slightly scaled back version of Livio AI with AI capabilities. Pairs with Bluetooth phones and accessories.
• Livio Edge - Affordable option also connects to phones and TV but lacks AI features.
• SoundLens Synergy - Invisible-in-canal model that pairs directly to iOS/Android for hands-free calls and streaming.

Pairing Starkey Hearing Aids with a Smartphone

Many Starkey models can connect directly to iPhones and Android smartphones using Bluetooth connectivity. This allows you to make calls and stream music, podcasts, navigation directions or any audio from your smartphone to your hearing aids.

To pair your Starkey hearing aids to your smartphone:

1. Ensure your Starkey hearing aids are powered on and Bluetooth is enabled. This is generally done through the Starkey Thrive Hearing Control app on your phone.
2. Go to your smartphone's Settings > Bluetooth and ensure Bluetooth is turned on.
3. Put your Starkey hearing aids into pairing mode. Refer to the instructions for your specific model.
4. On your phone, look for your Starkey hearing aid name (e.g. "Bill's Hearing Aids") and select it. Your phone may prompt you to confirm pairing.
5. You should now hear the pairing confirmation sounds or voice alerts through your Starkey hearing aids.
6. Once successfully paired, you can make calls and stream audio from your smartphone.

The Thrive app allows you to control noise reduction, volume levels, and streaming settings. You can also use it to find misplaced hearing aids by having them play a sound.

Pairing with the Starkey TV Transmitter

The Starkey TV transmitter allows you to pair compatible Starkey hearing aids to your television. The transmitter streams TV audio directly into your hearing aids.

To pair your Starkey hearing aids with the TV transmitter:

1. Plug the TV transmitter into your TV's RCA audio output jacks or use the optical input.
2. Power on the TV transmitter and pair it with your hearing aids using the instructions in the TV transmitter manual.
3. Set your TV's audio output to go through the RCA/optical jacks rather than the built-in speakers.
4. Turn on your Starkey hearing aids and enable Bluetooth pairing mode through the Thrive app.
5. On the TV transmitter, select your hearing aid name to initiate pairing. You will hear a confirmation.
6. You should now hear TV audio streaming directly through your Starkey hearing aids.
7. Adjust the volume on the TV transmitter for optimal audio levels.

Pairing with the Remote Microphone +

The Remote Microphone + is a Starkey accessory that allows your voice to be transmitted wirelessly to someone else's hearing aids from up to 66 feet away. It's useful in noisy environments like restaurants.

To pair the Remote Microphone + with Starkey hearing aids:

1. Power on the Remote Microphone + and ensure the hearing aid wearer's devices are also on.
2. Put the hearing aids into Bluetooth pairing mode through the Thrive app menu.
3. On the Remote Microphone +, select the hearing aid name from the device list to initiate pairing.
4. A pairing request will display on the hearing aid wearer's Thrive app. Accept it to complete pairing.
5. Your voice will now transmit from the Remote Microphone + directly to the paired hearing aids. Clip it onto your clothing when in use.

Pairing Other Bluetooth Accessories

In addition to the dedicated Starkey accessories, many Livio, Livio Edge and SoundLens Synergy models can also pair directly to other common Bluetooth devices like:

• Bluetooth-enabled telephones
• Laptops and tablets
• Audio streaming devices like Amazon Echo or Google Home
• MP3 players
• eReaders like Kindle
• Gaming consoles

Refer to your device's instruction manual for the exact steps to enter pairing mode. Then follow the standard Bluetooth pairing process outlined in your Starkey manual to connect it.

Starkey Hearing Aid Batteries and Pairing

In order for your Starkey hearing aids to pair with devices, they will need sufficient battery power. Starkey batteries come in three standard sizes:

• Size 312 (orange packaging)
• Size 13 (blue packaging)
• Size 10 (yellow packaging)

Size 312 batteries fit Starkey's smallest custom products and RIC devices like SoundLens Synergy. Size 13 is for most behind-the-ear (BTE) models. Size 10 batteries are for the largest over-the-ear aids.

Pairing will quickly drain hearing aid batteries so carry spares when out. Turn your hearing aids off when not in use to conserve power. Never attempt pairing with low batteries as it may fail.

Pairing Multiple Hearing Aids

Those who wear two hearing aids will need to pair each device separately. For example:

1. First pair the right hearing aid to your phone.
2. Then pair the left hearing aid.

Both hearing aids paired to the same devices will allow you to hear stereo audio from smartphones, TV and other Bluetooth accessories.

Troubleshooting Hearing Aid Pairing Problems

If you experience issues pairing your Starkey hearing aids, try these troubleshooting tips:

• Ensure your hearing aid batteries are fresh and have sufficient charge.
• Power the hearing aids off and on again before pairing.
• Manually put the hearing aids in pairing mode if they don't automatically connect.
• On your device, ensure Bluetooth is enabled and try "forgetting" then repairing the hearing aids.
• Reboot your phone or Bluetooth device completely.
• Ensure the hearing aids are within 6 inches of the device during pairing.
• Contact Starkey support for further assistance if needed.

Optimizing Your Starkey Hearing Experience

Pairing your Starkey hearing aids is the first step to enjoying stellar sound. You can further optimize your listening by:

• Customizing Programs - Set up personalized programs like "Outdoors" or "Restaurant" via the Thrive app.
• Updating Software - Download new software updates from Thrive to keep improving performance.
• Accessing Features - Learn all the features of your Starkey model and use them as needed.
• Using Accessories - Add helpful accessories like the TV transmitter for enhanced listening environments.
• Recharging When Low - Rechargeable Livio AI models give you up to 24 hours of use. Recharge daily.
• Cleaning Regularly - Follow Starkey's guide to cleaning your hearing aids to keep them working properly.
• Visiting Your Audiologist - See your audiologist regularly to have hearing and aids examined and adjusted.

Take full advantage of all your Starkey hearing aids offer. Pairing them properly allows you to enter a world of clear communication, convenience and connectivity.

Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult with a healthcare professional before starting any new treatment regimen.