Amazon introduces Dual Audio and new accessibility features for Fire TVs
Amazon is introducing new accessibility features for its Fire TVs, aimed at making the devices more inclusive for all users, the company announced on Wednesday. One of the key updates is the new Dual Audio feature, available on select Fire TVs, which allows users to pair their hearing aids with the TV and stream audio through both their hearing aids and the TV’s built-in speakers simultaneously. This feature is designed to enhance the viewing experience, allowing users to enjoy content alongside family and friends.
Additionally, Amazon is expanding support for the Audio Streaming for Hearing Aids (ASHA) protocol to include more hearing aid devices.
In a recent newsroom post, Amazon outlined the new features being rolled out to Fire TVs. Following the launch of the Fire TV Omni Mini-LED series last month, the Dual Audio feature will soon be available exclusively for these devices. This will enable users to stream audio to ASHA-enabled hearing aids and the TV’s built-in speakers at the same time, creating a more social and inclusive experience for watching movies and TV shows.
Amazon has existing partnerships with hearing aid companies such as Starkey and Cochlear, and is now collaborating with WS Audiology (WSA) to expand ASHA support to all Widex Moment behind-the-ear (BTE) and receiver-in-canal (RIC) hearing aids. This will allow users with Widex BTE and RIC hearing aids to stream content directly from ASHA-enabled Fire TV devices.
Amazon is simplifying the TV setup process by adding tactile QR codes to the Quick Start guides. Designed for customers with vision impairments, these QR codes feature raised UV dots and are located on the top left corner of the back panel of the device’s Quick Start Guide. Scanning the code will direct users to the Amazon website, where they can access localized product details, setup instructions, troubleshooting tips, captioned video guides, and information on the device’s accessibility features.
