Nokia has announced the Nokia Wireless Loopset, an accessory designed specifically for people with hearing aids. With a T-coil equipped hearing aid or cochlear implant, this device can help hearing aid users enjoy premium audio quality and handsfree operation of their mobile devices and other compatible audio devices.

"The Nokia Wireless Loopset provides hearing aid users with a hassle-free and handsfree connection to their mobile phones," said Peeta Piiparinen, R&D Specialist, Nokia. "Sound is amplified more efficiently, while the distance between the phone and hearing aid means that the possibility of interference is greatly reduced. The Loopset filters out background noise, which increases speech discrimination, and offers excellent audio quality in a range of environments such as the car, office, or even in windy conditions outdoors."

Compatible with handsets that use Bluetooth connectivity, the Loopset enables mobile calls to be accessed wirelessly through the hearing aid. The key features of the Nokia Wireless Loopset include a vibrating alert, user adjustable sidetone level for enhanced clarity and control of own voice, and optimized volume range and frequency response. It comes with a comfortable neckloop and a single button for call-handling.

The Loopset is expected to start shipping worldwide in the first quarter of 2009, with an estimated price of less than Rs 13,500 (200 Euros), before applicable taxes or subsidies.