The FCC’s Wireless Telecommunications Bureau is seeking comment on a petition filed by CTIA requesting that handset manufacturers be permitted to continue to use a temporary volume control standard to certify handset models as hearing aid compatible until a new permanent volume control standard becomes effective. Under the terms of the temporary standard, a handset model may be certified as hearing aid-compatible under the 2019 ANSI Standard if it meets the volume control testing requirements described in the HAC Waiver Order and all other aspects of the 2019 ANSI Standard. The Bureau seeks comment on whether to grant CTIA’s petition to extend use of the temporary volume control standard beyond the upcoming September 29, 2025 expiration date. If use of the temporary standard is not extended, handset manufacturers will have to meet the full 2019 ANSI volume control standard after this date to continue to certify new handset models as hearing aid compatible. Comments are due July 18 and reply comments are due July 28.
