Frankfurt Airport launches Bluetooth system for passengers with hearing loss

Frankfurt Airport has introduced new technology to help passengers with hearing loss. The German hub has become the first in the world to install Auracast, a Bluetooth-based audio broadcasting system. About this reports Daily Mail.

The devices send boarding gate announcements directly to passengers' hearing aids, headphones and smartphones. The technology has now been installed at two airport gates.

Auracast turns public sound into a live audio stream that people can listen to on their own devices. Instead of struggling to hear announcements over background noise, travelers connect to the system as if they were taking a phone call or listening to music.

The technology works with hearing aids, in-ear headphones, Auracast-compatible headphones, and assistive listening devices. Users can receive announcements through supported smartphones.

Over the next two months, project partners will collect feedback from travelers and airport staff to assess how the technology impacts accessibility, comfort, and the overall passenger experience.

Based on the testing results, the airport management will decide to expand the system to other gates.

• In 2023, Frankfurt Airport will become the first on the continent to offered facial recognition services as part of the process check-in for all passengers departing from there.