JPRO is proud to announce the availability of Bettear’s next-generation Auracast™ products in New Zealand, bringing advanced inclusive listening technology to a wide range of public and private environments.
Bettear, a leading manufacturer of assistive listening technology, has announced the launch of its groundbreaking Auracast™ Suite following its recent Auracast™ certification. The suite features the B-CASTER streamer and B-RTX transceiver, complemented by companion devices such as the B-SmartHive charger and the B-PASS, which enables secure audio streaming in confidential environments. These innovative products not only enhance audio accessibility for the hearing impaired but are also designed to revolutionise how people experience sound in public spaces and beyond.
“Our commitment to inclusive solutions is reflected in the B-CASTER and B-RTX,” said Itamar Gabay, CEO of Bettear. “We are confident these products will significantly improve how people connect with the world around them through exceptional audio experiences.”
“Auracast™ is ushering in a new era of assistive listening,” said Ariel Caner, CMO of Bettear. “As a leading provider of Auracast™ solutions, we are committed to leveraging this technology to create a more inclusive and enjoyable audio experience for everyone.”
Designed for both assistive listening and direct audio broadcast applications, the B-CASTER Streamer connects directly to Auracast™-enabled hearing aids, cochlear implants and hearables.
It also functions as a standalone access point for public venues, delivering high-fidelity, low-latency audio in real time—ideal for environments such as galleries, auditoriums and convention centres.
A versatile handheld transceiver that can broadcast and receive Auracast™ streams. The compact B-RTX Transceiver allows users without compatible devices to access the Auracast™ experience.
B-RTX pairs effortlessly with B-CASTER Streamers and includes features for guided tours, exhibitions and public venues—delivering powerful, inclusive audio for every listener.
The B-SMARTHIVE dock enables efficient charging and management of multiple B-RTX units. Featuring magnetic charging bays and rack-mountable configuration options, it is designed for high-volume installations and integrates seamlessly with Bettear’s management software.
B-PASS provides encrypted access to audio streams in environments where privacy is essential—such as courtrooms and secure meeting rooms—ensuring that only authorised users can connect.
Bettear’s Auracast™ product range is now available for demo and purchase across New Zealand. If you’re looking to enhance accessibility and create a more inclusive experience, our expert team is here to assist. Connect with us today to learn more and explore demo opportunities.
Since the announcement of its release last year, product manufacturers, market analysts and industry enthusiasts have eagerly awaited the availability of Auracast™ devices. Finally, that wait is over. Auracast™ broadcast audio is being deployed at public festivals, in conference centres and showcased at numerous audio event expos. Google even added the ability for venues and businesses to indicate support for Auracast™ broadcast audio within their locations in preparation for widespread deployment of Auracast™ broadcast audio in a broad range of public spaces. Now we all have an opportunity to experience the benefits of this new Bluetooth® innovation firsthand.
Bettear Auracast™ solutions are now available in New Zealand! The hearing aid industry has turned to Bluetooth® technology to overcome the challenges of traditional assistive listening systems (ALS) with Auracast™ broadcast audio. See why this new Bluetooth capability will make broader deployment and increased availability of ALS for people with hearing loss possible, while also expanding applicability of these systems to consumers with all levels of hearing health.
An Auracast™ transmitter begins an Auracast™ broadcast that includes advertisements, which provide Auracast™ assistants with information about the broadcast (e.g. name, content, codec configuration, etc.), as well as one or more audio streams (e.g. left and right stereo audio streams).
Auracast™ assistants scan for Auracast™ advertisements and provide a user interface (UI) to enable users to select an Auracast™ broadcast to join, similar to the UI commonly used to connect to Wi-Fi networks in public spaces.
Once an Auracast™ broadcast is selected, the Auracast™ assistant provides the Auracast™ receiver (e.g. headphone, earbud, hearing aid, etc.) the information it needs to join the Auracast™ broadcast.
Auracast™ devices are now available in New Zealand. In addition to these Auracast™ product releases, there is a complete suite of Auracast™ retrofit transmitter solutions (see the BettearCASTER below) that will allow users to experience Auracast™ broadcast audio sooner than later. This newly released infographic outlines the Auracast™ retrofit opportunity in detail and highlights some of the largest volume opportunities with the lowest barrier to implementation for locations and devices to take advantage of these retrofit solutions today.
Learn about Auracast™ broadcast audio retrofit solutions and opportunities.
Bettear’s B-CASTER Auracast™ streamer is a groundbreaking innovation in audio streaming technology. It significantly enhances the auditory experience for individuals with hearing impairments by seamlessly integrating with Auracast™-compatible hearing devices. This integration ensures high-quality audio streaming with low-latency across a wide range of hearing devices, including hearing-aids, cochlear implants and various other hearables.
The B-CASTER can operate in ‘Standalone Mode,’ smoothly broadcasting audio to Auracast™ compatible devices within its range, or it can operate in Auracast™ and Wi-Fi ‘Hybrid Mode.’
In Hybrid mode the B-CASTER and the B-SHOW function as a combined system, making any venue fully accessible for everyone – both those equipped with Auracast™ compatible hearing devices and those without.
An uncompromised, inclusive and accessible listening experience is now provided for everyone. Here and now.
The range will vary depending on environmental factors and receiver specification i.e. earbuds or hearing aids may perform differently to Bettear’s B-RTX (a dedicated Auracast™ Transceiver)
Each B-Caster broadcasts over 100 meters in all directions. For greater coverage, a B-Caster-S can be used in a daisy chain to expand the range.
It depends on the hearing aid/cochlear implant manufacturer, but most commonly you would use their mobile app on a smartphone or tablet to connect to the Auracast broadcast. The B-Caster would appear in the Bluetooth® pairing list of the app, so you’d simply need to connect to the desired source.
Yes. The Bettear system includes a B-RTX Transceiver, allowing anyone to experience hassle-free audio directly from the B-Caster.
The Bettear B-Caster also supports a Standalone Mode for broadcasting exclusively to Auracast-compatible devices.
In Hybrid Mode, the B-Caster, when paired with a B-Show, can simultaneously broadcast over Wi-Fi to any Wi-Fi-enabled device using the free Bettear App, or integrate with traditional hearing loop systems.
The number of users that can connect to an Auracast™ broadcast is unlimited, if they are in range for the signal. Auracast™ is a true broadcast technology, and the number of people choosing to listen at any given time has no impact on the transmitter or other receiving devices.
Many audio-visual manufacturers are already implementing Auracast™ based technology within their devices. Adoption rates across brands and devices vary, but market expectations are for the incorporation of Bluetooth LE capabilities to increase significantly over the next 2-5 years.
B-Caster supports 1 channel (1 stereo/2 mono)
If more than one pair of audio channels is needed (such as for translations or different screens in a gym), additional B-Casters can be connected to audio sources and used to broadcast on separate streams.
Via the suppled DC in – 12v 2.5A input or PoE+ In
The B-CASTER unique power management circuitry enables network and power chaining between two B-CASTERs or a B-CASTER and a Wi-Fi Access Point, reducing cabling complexity.
2 x Phoenix connectors (balanced)
While there isn’t a dedicated Dante version, you can easily integrate B-Caster into your Dante network using Dante AVIO adapters, which are readily available from JPRO.
Yes, Auracast™ uses the LC3 codec which has a much lower latency compared to AAC or aptX which have 120ms and 70ms respectively.
The B-Caster system supports latency of <40ms. Actual latency will vary with the paired receiver such as earbuds or hearing aids. Humans notice when audio and video are out of sync by about 40–80 milliseconds.
This post was reproduced in part thanks to the https://www.bluetooth.com/auracast website, check it out for more in-depth information regarding Auracast technology and how it will enable exciting new audio experiences that will enhance the way we engage with each other and the world around us.
JPRO is excited to announce it has secured the distribution rights for Bettear Wi-Fi and Auracast™ Assistive Listening Solutions in New Zealand
Auckland, New Zealand: JPRO, a leading distributor of professional audio, video and control technology solutions, is excited to announce its appointment as the New Zealand distributor for Bettear Wi-Fi and Auracast™ Assistive Listening Solutions.
Bettear create innovative wireless assistive listening systems by using the latest advancements in Wi-Fi and Auracast™ technologies. These systems aim to transform how people with hearing difficulties experience audio in both indoor and outdoor spaces such as conference rooms, concerts, museums and houses of worship. This is achieved by offering immediate and convenient access to high-quality assistive technology through personal devices including smartphones, hearing aids and other audio technologies like receivers provided at venues.
Bettear technologies include a leading Wi-Fi streaming assistive listening platform that allows users to connect their devices wirelessly to venue audio systems. With Hi-Fi over Wi-Fi, flexible indoor and outdoor installation options, built-in transcription and other unique features, the product offers a personalised listening experience using the Bettear app on smartphones.
A feature-rich Auracast™ Streamer represents another leap forward in assistive listening technology, providing high-quality, low latency audio directly to compatible hearing aids and listening devices. Wide coverage and hybrid capabilities with the ability to broadcast Auracast™ and Wi-Fi simultaneously, set the streamer apart from other Auracast™ solutions.
Auracast™ is based on new Bluetooth technology that broadcasts high quality sound using very little power consumption. It essentially allows an audio source, such as a microphone or sound mixer, to transmit one or more audio streams to an unlimited number of compatible audio receivers like earbuds, cochlear implants or hearing aids. Users can then select (via an app) which audio stream they want their listening device to connect to.
These advanced technologies promise to transform audio experiences for the hearing-impaired in public spaces such as theatres, conference rooms and places of worship, offering unmatched clarity and inclusivity.
“We are excited about our partnership with Bettear, enabling JPRO to offer an accessible and inclusive assistive listening solution in New Zealand,” says Paul Edlin, Sales Director at JPRO. “The B-Show Wi-Fi streaming solution that we have experienced has a variety of user-friendly accessible features. Bettear products integrate with existing loop systems and with more devices now featuring Auracast™ technology, we can deliver a leading solution that enhances the lives of many.”
“We are thrilled to partner with JPRO to bring Bettear’s cutting-edge assistive listening solutions to New Zealand,” said Mr. Itamar Gabbay, Bettear’s CEO. “Our Wi-Fi and Auracast™ based streaming technologies offer a seamless and personalised audio experience for people using hearing aids, cochlear implants and other hearables. JPRO’s expertise in the New Zealand market, combined with Bettear’s innovative technology, will empower users to connect their own devices and enjoy crystal-clear audio in any venue. This is an exciting step in expanding access to assistive listening technology across New Zealand, ensuring everyone can fully participate and engage in social and cultural settings, fostering a more inclusive society for all.”
JPRO has extensive experience providing assistive listening solutions and with Bettear in their product portfolio, will be able to offer cutting-edge, user-friendly accessible solutions in New Zealand, along with exceptional support, free expert advice and assistive hearing designs to its customer base. The synergy between the companies is immense, with all having a strong commitment to providing a high-quality listening experience.
Availability:
Bettear Wi-Fi Products are now available to demo and purchase in New Zealand. To discover more of the Bettear products in NZ, click here. To learn more about the manufacturer, click here.
The B-CASTER, Bettear’s feature-rich Auracast™ Streamer, will be available soon. Please use the contact form below to reach to our team of experts for your assistive listening solution.
