Cryptocurrency has revolutionized industries, creating a new way for people to make, track, and store transactions transparently and securely. Combining the easy access to crypto with other hearing technologies, those with hearing loss may be able to find more ways to improve their daily lives.
It’s also continuing to evolve as technology like artificial intelligence is being explored to power crypto, with the United States leading in interest . However, the benefits of crypto have gone beyond secure, decentralized transactions; they’ve become accessible resources for disadvantaged communities like deaf and hard-of-hearing people. Here’s how crypto and other technologies empower deaf and hard-of-hearing people.
Accessibility through crypto
The new approach to transactions and finance that crypto has offered could empower deaf and hard of hearing people. The decentralized nature of cryptocurrencies thanks to blockchain has made them incredibly accessible, aided in large part by the “Wild West” period and lack of significant regulations.
Crypto-payments are available and used online, so they remove barriers for deaf people who have difficulty with communication - a crucial aspect of any financial transaction or service. Because crypto platforms provide absolute online access, deaf and hard-of-hearing people can use them through their devices without facing inclusivity issues at traditional financial institutions like banks.
Transparency and security are aspects they don't have to worry about, thanks to the fact that transactions are stored in an immutable ledger. This allows them to confidently control their finances and assets without any compromise on security, paving the way for enhanced financial literacy and business opportunities.
Smart contracts on blockchain
It can be difficult for deaf and hard-of-hearing people to enter into agreements and transactions in their daily lives, as communication barriers hinder communication and trust. Blockchain-based smart contracts make it easy for people with hearing impairments to transact and fulfill agreements, as these digital agreements are automatically triggered when predetermined conditions are met.
They are very easy to track and manage, without the need to contact another party to the transaction to follow up on their fulfillment. This makes transactions more accessible and simpler, as they do not need the involvement of a central authority or other intermediaries that could potentially hinder communication.
Hearing aid glasses
But even cryptocurrencies require attention and concentration. When your senses aren't working too well, you'll need to ensure they have the support they need from other important technologies.
For example, some recent innovations allow hearing aids to look more organic, providing a unique approach to accessibility.
Hearing aid glasses are one of the newest technologies for the hearing impaired, combining vision and hearing capabilities. Nuance Audio hearing aid glasses utilize beamforming technology that amplifies sounds in the direction the user is looking, reducing background noise that can interfere with hearing. The microphones and speakers are built directly into the frame, keeping it invisible. They’re a viable solution for those who don’t like the feel and look of traditional hearing aids or are concerned about costs.
Nuance Audio Hearing Aid Glasses. Source: Nuance Audio
It’s also helpful for hard-of-hearing individuals who require prescription glasses, as the Nuance Audio frames can accommodate both vision and hearing needs. By combining the two, the glasses empower those with hearing loss to go about their daily lives and chase new opportunities now that they can hear and see more clearly.
Nuance Audio Accessories. Source: Nuance Audio
Hearing aid earbuds
Earbuds have become a common piece of technology. Paradoxically, deaf and hard of hearing people are still unable to utilize their full capabilities.
However, hearing aid technology is increasingly being integrated into these devices, allowing deaf and hard-of-hearing people to utilize their various features and sound quality. Apple’s latest version of the Apple AirPods earbuds will come with built-in hearing aids equivalent to over-the-counter ones. Users can take hearing tests on their Apple devices, and the AirPods Pro creates personalized dynamic adjustments to enable them to properly hear their immediate listening environments with boosted sound in real time.
AirPods Pro Can Be Used as a Hearing Aid. Source: nbc news
Other adjustments also amplify phone calls, music, and other media with audio so individuals with hearing loss can tune in with ease. By integrating hearing aids into earbuds, hearing technology becomes more accessible and versatile for various functions, allowing deaf and hard-of-hearing people to enjoy everyday technology they may not have used before.
