Manufacturers and service providers have at least two years to comply.

Following its Notice of Proposed Rulemaking late last year, the FCC has updated its technical standards for hearing aid compatibility of wireless phones. The details are highly technical and defy accurate summary. Those interested should consult the FCC’s Third Report and Order.

The new rules take effect 30 days after publication in the Federal Register, following which manufacturers and Tier I service providers will have 24 months to come into compliance.  Non-Tier I service providers have three months longer.