Samsung Unpacked 2025: Google Enhances Hearing Aid Support

Android Accessibility Enhancements Announced by Google

Concurrent with numerous announcements surrounding the anticipated Samsung Galaxy S25 launch at Samsung Unpacked 2025 on Wednesday, Google revealed a pair of accessibility enhancements for the Android operating system.

These improvements encompass advancements to the screen reader functionality, as well as upgrades to support for hearing aids.

Hearing Aid Support Updates

The updates concerning hearing aids follow Google’s expansion of this feature as part of the Android 15 release. The previous year witnessed significant developments in the hearing aid sector.

Specifically, the FDA authorized over-the-counter access to this technology in May, fostering a burgeoning market for smart hearing aids that integrate with mobile devices.

In September, Apple received FDA approval allowing AirPods Pro to function as hearing aids. This development is expected to be mirrored by numerous earbud manufacturers in the near future.

This trend is being facilitated by both proprietary software solutions and updates to the Android platform.

LE Bluetooth Compatibility

Wednesday’s updates introduce compatibility with LE Bluetooth technology. This, in turn, enables features such as hands-free calling and connections with reduced latency.

The feature is being deployed alongside the S25, and is also available for the S24 and Google’s own Pixel 9 devices, through the Android 16 beta program.

TalkBack Screen Reader Improvements

Simultaneously, Android’s TalkBack screen reader is receiving its own set of updates.

Users who utilize braille displays will now have access to HID (human interface design) support.

The USB-IF foundation introduced the HID standard in 2018, stating it would “simplify the use of a braille display across operating systems and various hardware types.”

It will also streamline development by eliminating the need for braille devices to require custom software and drivers for specific operating systems or screen readers.

Rollout Schedule and Gemini Integration

This feature will initially be available on the Galaxy S25 in the coming weeks.

Following this, it will be extended to all smartphones and tablets operating on Android 15 in the months ahead.

Furthermore, TalkBack is gaining enhanced image descriptions powered by Google Gemini.