A Bettear Auracast™ assistive listening system has been installed at The Sterling Kaiapoi, providing flexible, future-ready audio across communal spaces at this new retirement village.
At The Sterling, Kaiapoi, a subtle upgrade is making a noticeable difference to everyday life. Regardless of hearing ability residents can now enjoy clearer sound in shared spaces – whether watching a film, dining with friends or attending events – in a way that feels natural, personal and easy to use.
The new assistive listening system, installed by Vega Global NZ using Bettear’s Auracast™ solutions and supplied in New Zealand by JPRO, was designed with a simple goal in mind: make sound more accessible to hear for everyone, without adding complexity. The village needed a solution that would work reliably across multiple rooms, avoid frustrating dropouts and be intuitive for residents and staff alike.
What sets this system apart is how seamlessly it fits into daily life. Instead of relying on specialised equipment or complicated setup processes, audio is sent directly to devices many people already use. Residents can listen through compatible hearing aids, earbuds or smartphones, connecting to the broadcast in seconds. For those without personal devices, dedicated receivers are readily available, ensuring no one is left out.
Auracast™ brings a new approach to how people connect with sound using Bluetooth® Low Energy broadcast technology. Rather than pairing one device to another, Auracast™ allows audio to be shared with many listeners at once. Joining is as simple as selecting a channel, much like choosing a Wi-Fi network. The effect is often described as a “silent PA system” delivering clear, direct audio without adding to the noise of the room.
This approach not only improves the listening experience today but also prepares The Sterling, Kaiapoi for the future. As more hearing aids and consumer devices become Auracast™-compatible, residents will increasingly be able to connect using their own technology, without needing additional hardware.
“Compared to traditional hearing loop or RF systems, the process required less infrastructure and allowed for faster setup.”
Behind the scenes, the system is designed to be as efficient as it is effective.
Audio is distributed across the village’s cinema, lounge, restaurant and multi-purpose spaces using Bettear B-CASTER-S streamers, all connected via a streamlined network style setup.
From an installation perspective, the project proved refreshingly simple. “Compared to traditional hearing loop or RF systems, the process required less infrastructure and allowed for faster setup,” says Craig Orr from Vega. “There’s far less complexity. Audio feeds, power and control are all handled through a clean network-based approach, while system configuration is managed through an intuitive interface that makes fine-tuning quick and accessible.”
“What really stood out once it was up and running was how solid Bettear’s Auracast™ signal is. Coverage was easy to tailor to each area and there were no noticeable weak spots.”
“What really stood out once it was up and running was how solid Bettear’s Auracast™ signal is,” Craig continues. “Coverage was easy to tailor to each area and there were no noticeable weak spots. It just works consistently, which means people can move between spaces and still enjoy a clear listening experience without interruption.”
At The Sterling, Kaiapoi it all comes back to something simple: being able to hear clearly wherever you are. As Auracast™ continues to gain traction, installations like this offer a glimpse of what accessible audio can look like. There’s no extra effort, no complicated setup, just a system that fits quietly into everyday life and makes shared moments easier to enjoy.
A look inside The Sterling, Kaiapoi:
Visitors to this year’s EUHA Congress in Nuremberg had the chance to experience Auracast in action, as the Bluetooth LE Audio technology presented in collaboration with Bettear took centre stage across the three-day event.
Held from 22–24 October, the annual gathering brought together more than 9,000 audiologists, hearing aid specialists and AV professionals from around the world. Across 15,500 m² of exhibition space over 150 companies showcased their latest innovations, while seminars and tutorials explored the future of hearing technology with Auracast proving to be one of the most talked-about topics.
For the first time, the EUHA integrated Auracast into the event itself. In collaboration with Humantechnik, AUDIOropa and Bettear, the system was deployed throughout the congress, allowing attendees to tune into live sessions in either German or English directly through compatible devices. The setup eliminated the need for traditional Telecoil areas and gave users full freedom to choose where they sat.
The technology also powered real-time translations in the exhibition’s “Live Area,” where EUHA President Beate Gromke opened the event. Her keynote, delivered in German and the translation simultaneously streamed in English via Bettear’s Auracast solution, highlighted the accessibility and flexibility of the new audio format.
“Based on Bluetooth LE Audio, Auracast allows one transmitter to broadcast to countless receivers, much like a radio station,” Gromke noted. “It’s an innovation that not only enhances events like this but also expands social participation for people with hearing loss.”
Following widespread interest and positive feedback, EUHA described Auracast as “the talk of the town,” citing its low latency, individual sound control and potential to transform audio accessibility in public spaces such as airports, cinemas and transport hubs.
With its seamless integration and impressive performance, made possible through Bettear’s collaborative work, Auracast made a strong case for being the next big step in connected audio, leaving many visitors eager to bring the technology into their own environments.
“Auracast is an innovation that not only enhances events like this but also expands social participation for people with hearing loss.”
Our Experience of Auracast at EUHA… So Far
By Phil Creighton
By lunchtime on day one, we’d already experienced Auracast in three different settings; the opening ceremony, press tour and a lecture hall. It’s safe to say the technology impressed us from the outset. All of this was made possible through Bettear’s Auracast system, which was deployed across key areas of the congress.
During the opening event, some of the translators, themselves deaf, listened to the German address via Bettear’s Auracast stream sent directly to their hearing devices. They then relayed the translation through a Bettear B-RTX transmitter, which we received on our ReSound Vivia hearing aids. This setup was remarkable for two reasons: first, Bettear successfully configured two separate Auracast streams — one in German and one in English, without any cross-interference; and second, the translators’ skill in listening to one language via Auracast and instantly voicing another live was extraordinary.
“What stood out most was Auracast’s versatility, delivering clear audio in noisy spaces where traditional tours failed, transforming accessibility for those with hearing loss.”
Audio clarity was consistently strong, even against the bustle of the congress. In the Live Area, background chatter was present but the speech remained intelligible. On the exhibition tour, the sound was cleaner, and we could follow the English translation with ease. The lecture hall, with its soundproof booths and podium microphones, delivered the best overall quality — crisp, full, and remarkably natural.
What stood out most was Auracast’s versatility. It handled large, noisy spaces with thousands of people effortlessly, delivering a clear stream directly to our hearing aids – something traditional tours simply can’t achieve for those with hearing loss. When we switched Auracast off, the difference was stark: despite standing just a few feet from the speaker, ambient noise made the talk unintelligible.
The entire system, powered by Bettear’s pebble-sized B-RTX transmitter, proved both portable and user-friendly. Connecting was as simple as scanning a QR code – quick, intuitive and ready to go within seconds.
Bettear’s real-world demonstration at EUHA showed exactly what Auracast can achieve in busy, real-world settings. It didn’t just showcase the future of hearing technology, it let us experience it firsthand.
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 hearing 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.
Bettear Auracast™ Solutions Packed with Advanced Features:
Bettear’s Auracast™ streaming technology ensures every listener can fully engage with the moment no matter the space. From conference halls and theatres to universities, worship spaces and public venues, Bettear delivers inclusive, high quality audio that elevates experiences, ensures every voice is heard and brings every visitor into the moment.
What sets Bettear apart is its ability to go beyond accessibility, providing Auracast™ and streaming solutions for:
- Live Audio Streaming
- Assistive Listening
- Tour Guiding
- Secure Audio in confidential spaces
- Speech-to-Text Optimisation
- Audio Personalisation (DAP)
- Translation and more
Bettear Auracast™ Suite:
B-CASTER Streamer:
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.
B-RTX Transceiver:
A versatile portable 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.
B-SMARTHIVE Charging & Device Management:
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 Secure Audio:
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.
The Auracast™ Experience | Book a Demo or Request Info
So.. What is Auracast™?
Auracast™ broadcast audio is a new capability of Bluetooth ® ️LE that allows one source to stream to many devices at the same time. Think of it like a “silent PA system” but one that you can actually hear through your hearing aids, cochlear implants, headphones or smartphone.
Unlike traditional Bluetooth®, which connects one-on-one, Auracast™ enables one-to-many streaming. You don’t need to pair devices or change settings, just scan, tap, and listen. It’s like Wi-Fi, but for sound.
Next Generation of Assistive Listening is Here
Bettear Auracast™ streaming technology ensures every listener can fully engage with the moment no matter the space. From conference halls and theatres to universities, worship spaces and public venues, Bettear delivers inclusive, high quality audio that elevates experiences, ensures every voice is heard and brings every visitor into the moment.
Watch the Auracast™ meets ProAV webinar to learn what sets Bettear apart is its ability to go beyond accessibility, providing Auracast™ and streaming solutions for:
- Live Audio Streaming
- Assistive Listening
- Tour Guiding
- Secure Audio in confidential spaces
- Speech-to-Text Optimisation
- Audio Personalisation (DAP)
- Translation and more
Auracast™ How It Works
- A venue (theater, museum, or transit hub) installs an Auracast™ compatible transmitter.
- The transmitter broadcasts audio such as announcements, music, or speech.
- Users join the broadcast using their smartphone, hearing aids, cochlear implants or other compatible devices.
- The results? Real-time audio that is clear, reliable, and personal.
STEP 1
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).
STEP 2
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.
STEP 3
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.
Why Auracast™ matters:
Auracast™ is more than just a Bluetooth upgrade, it is a significant leap forward in audio accessibility.
- Universal access: works across hearing aids, cochlear implants, headphones and smartphones. No need for special receivers.
- Ease of use: Join by scanning a QR code, selecting from a list, or auto-joining a saved stream.
- High-quality, precise audio in concerts, lectures, or stadiums – No matter where you sit.
- Use during tours, in museums, or with guided groups – Listen directly from your own devices without extra equipment.
- Consistent quality: Delivers low-latency, reliable sound even in noisy environments, no matter where you sit.
- Personal control: users adjust their own volume and experience discreetly on their own devices.
- Scalability: From small classrooms to massive stadiums, Auracast™ adapts to the space without losing quality.
Where you’ll see it in action:
- Classrooms and Universities – students can listen through their own phones or hearing devices.
- Museums and tours – Multilingual or accessible audio guides without extra equipment.
- Transit Hubs – Hear real-time announcements, even in loud crowded spaces.
- Event venues – let every seat be a front row seat.
- Hospitals and public offices – Private, clear communication where it matters most.
Learn about Auracast™ broadcast audio retrofit solutions and opportunities.
Bettear + Auracast™: A New Era of Inclusive Audio
Bettear are proud to build solutions around Auracast™ technology because it aligns perfectly with their mission: making audio accessible, simple, and inclusive for everyone.
They have already integrated Auracast™ into their product lineup, including B-CASTER and B-RTX, so venues, organisations and individuals can break down barriers and ensure that no one misses a moment, whether it is a speech, a concert, or a simple announcement.
To learn more about how Bettear leverages Auracast™ to deliver superior assistive listening solutions contact us for a personalised demo to explore how we can make your space Auracast™ ready.
Bettear Auracast™ Features
- Audio Streaming Over Auracast™ | Comprehensive support for Auracast™ broadcasting
- Near Real-Time Audio Streaming | Streaming real-time (<40mS) audio over Auracast™
- Cascadable Power over Ethernet (PoE) | Two units (B-CASTER and Wi-Fi APs) can be daisy-chained
- Compatibility with Auracast™ Hearables | Seamless listening for Auracast™-based hearables
- Management Dashboard | A web management dashboard enabling effortless configuration
- Optimal Audio Experience | Exceptional sound quality, enjoyable listening
- Adjustable Audio Settings | Bettear’s free iOS and Android assistive listening application provides seamless control over Auracast™ settings
Frequently Asked Questions
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.
BETTEAR Auracast™ | Request More Information or Product Demo
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.