MobileConnect Update
I am a member of the Saddlebrooke Hearing Discussion Group. In recent articles I have mentioned MobileConnect. It is a wireless audio streaming system that allows users to receive audio directly on their smartphone. The MobileConnect app then uses your phone’s Bluetooth connection to send audio to your hearing aids. However, if your hearing aids don’t support Bluetooth streaming, you won’t be able to use MobileConnect.
HOA1 has recently installed this system in the upper level of the HOA1 clubhouse. Our group appreciates the opportunity to have assisted with the initial testing of the system. We helped Rich Sandoval, who is the HOA1 IT Director, develop a set of Resident/Guest instructions. These instructions will be posted throughout the clubhouse, and the F&B staff will be available for assistance. HOA2 currently has plans to install MobileConnect in the MountainView Ballroom and Sonoran Room as part of the MountainView renovation.
The HOA1 instructions list the following steps:
Step 1: Download MobileConnect APP from the APP Store. You can use this QR code to download the MobileConnect App to either your IOS or Android device:
Step 2: Connect to the correct Wi-Fi. Open your device’s Wi-Fi settings. Select the HOA1 network named “HearingAssist”. No password is required. This Wi-Fi network does not have internet access.
Step 3: Open the Sennheiser MobileConnect App. Launch the MobileConnect app on your device. Accept any permissions if prompted.
Step 4: Select the Venue Audio Channel. The app will automatically display available channels. Tap Channel 1. Channel 2 is currently inactive but will eventually be activated to allow for a separate signal in the Vermillion Room.
Step 5: Adjust Audio Settings. Use your device’s volume buttons or the in-app volume slider to adjust the volume to a comfortable level. You may also adjust the sound balance if available. You can use the Pause Button to temporarily pause the audio stream so you can converse with a neighbor in the audience.
Step 6: End the Session. When finished you can simply close the app. Your settings will be saved automatically for next time.
During the initial testing I was able to walk through the first floor of the clubhouse and still hear the audio stream. Unlike the loop there was no break in the signal. A few residents did experience a frustrating echo which is caused by a delay (latency) in the signal. If you experience latency my recommendation would be to try moving to another location in the room.
Loop systems don’t have a latency issue, but they are much more expensive to install and repair. Unfortunately, all the current assistive listening systems have their drawbacks. I have written previously about a Bluetooth system called Auracast. I believe that one day this system will be the standard in assistive listening. The installation will be straight forward and there won’t be any need for a special app. Unfortunately, very few current hearing devices support Auracast. It will likely be several years until Auracast is a practical alternative. I believe that the installation of MobileConnect is a reasonable step now.
HOA1 plans to keep the existing loop in the Clubhouse, although there is not a loop in Vermillion Room. This will give the residents with t-coils in their devices an alternative option. Our group meets on the 2nd Friday of every month at 10 AM in the Catalina Room in the Mesquite Building. Stop by if you would like help. If you would like to have your email added to our distribution list, contact me at tgaule@outlook.com.