Listen Technologies, a provider of assistive listening, multi-language audio transmission and live-streaming audio solutions, and Ampetronic, a world-leading provider of hearing loop systems, have together announced that Auri, the first complete Auracast broadcast audio-based assistive listening solution, is now shipping.
Auri enables venues and users to utilise Auracast audio technology, establishing a new benchmark for Bluetooth Low Energy Audio tailored for assistive listening in public areas. It provides high-quality, low-latency multi-channel audio to an unlimited number of dedicated receivers and the latest Auracast-compatible consumer devices.
A complete assistive listening solution
Auri includes network-installed transmitters, dedicated receivers, docking stations, Auri Manager software, and a full range of accessories such as headphones, neck loops, and signage.
The Auri TX2N is a versatile transmitter designed for various audio inputs in different venues. Inputs can be set to mono or stereo for one or two channels, and more channels can be added by connecting extra transmitters. Each Auri TX2N covers a broad area, and coverage can be extended with an additional transmitter in repeater mode. An optional Dante network audio interface transmitter is also available.
The Auri RX1 receiver meets global accessibility standards for assistive listening, enabling users to choose their preferred broadcast method. They may use their Auracast-compatible device or an Auri receiver to search for broadcasts. Auri receivers can manage both open and encrypted broadcasts and are compatible with neck loop lanyards for telecoil-equipped hearing aids.
The Auri docking stations are available in 4- and 16-unit models, designed for standalone charging or for managing receiver settings and facilitating firmware updates for connected receivers. Users can save a complete receiver configuration in the docking station, allowing for easy transfer to all docked receivers at the push of a button.
Auri Manager software for Windows simplifies both system setup and management. Venue operators can configure an individual device or oversee a comprehensive system distributed throughout a site or multiple areas within a venue. They can handle broadcast channel names and settings, set passwords to secure channel access and download and install firmware updates.
The Auri system is ready for installation and deployment. It is compatible with all assistive listening devices in venues and can be integrated with ListenIR, ListenRF, ListenWIFI, or Ampetronic hearing loops in new setups to enhance accessibility.
Key features and benefits
- High-quality, low-latency audio: Auri offers clear, high-quality audio without noticeable latency, making it ideal for various listening occasions such as live events, presentations, and multimedia content.
- Multi-channel capability: Auri accommodates multiple audio channels to meet varied audio needs within a single venue, providing flexibility in sound management.
- Extended coverage and scalability: Auri transmits audio up to 100 meters and allows additional transmitters to enhance coverage or provide more channels, making it perfect for venues of all sizes.
- Broad accessibility and compatibility: Auri works with dedicated receivers and various Auracast-compatible devices like hearing aids, headphones, and smartphones, promoting early Auracast adoption.
- Software management: Auri Manager software is a user-friendly platform that enables installers and venue operators to efficiently manage and configure devices across a network.
Listen Technologies and Ampetronic showcased Auri at various industry events starting in 2024. The system has garnered positive feedback from integrators, resellers, consultants, and others within the professional AV community, as well as end users. Auri has also been awarded multiple industry accolades.
Increasing accessibility to audio in public spaces
According to the World Health Organization (WHO) more than 1.5 billion people have hearing loss. By 2050, the WHO estimates that nearly 2.5 billion people will have some degree of hearing loss. Assistive listening systems provide clear audio directly to the ears of individuals with hearing loss and those who struggle to hear in difficult listening situations.
With the increasing availability of hearing aids, earbuds, headphones, and consumer devices equipped with Bluetooth Low Energy Audio technology, coupled with the expansion of Auracast broadcast audio in public spaces, access to high-quality broadcast audio for assistive listening is poised to improve. However, this enhancement will require time to materialise fully.
“With Auri, Listen Technologies and Ampetronic are helping venues and end users benefit from Auracast broadcast audio technology now,” says Julian Pieters, chief strategy officer at Listen Technologies and Ampetronic.
“Auri can help more than 60 million venues around the globe meet accessibility requirements for assistive listening with future-ready technology that is easy to use and provides exceptional audio quality and clarity to end users with all levels of hearing health.”
See also: Listen Technologies & the power of shared experiences
Auri is the first product from the strategic partnership of Listen Technologies and Ampetronic under the Allvida umbrella, committed to helping the world “simply hear better.” They have combined leadership, aligned operations, and resources to boost innovation and expand globally.
“Listen Technologies and Ampetronic are committed to developing solutions that increase audio accessibility and help venues provide more inclusive experiences for guests,” says Tracy Bathurst, chief technology officer at Listen Technologies and Ampetronic.
“We are proud to begin shipping the world’s first complete Auracast broadcast audio-based solution for assistive listening. With Auri, everyone can experience Auracast broadcast audio.”
Discover Auri at ISE 2025
Auri’s applications encompass assistive listening, language interpretation, audio from screens, and audio description. Auri is ideally suited for venues such as houses of worship, theatres, performance halls, conference centres, bars, restaurants, transportation terminals, and other public spaces where users seek clear audio access.
Auri is now shipping globally.
Listen Technologies and Ampetronic will share a stand with Bluetooth SIG at ISE from 4 – 7 February 2025. Visitors to Fira Barcelona can visit stand #3R400 to experience Auracast broadcast audio and Auri, as well as Listen Technologies’ and Ampetronic’s combined suite of assistive listening technologies and solutions.
Attendees can get in touch via email to schedule meetings with Listen Technologies, Ampetronic, and Bluetooth SIG stakeholders at ISE.
