Auracast™
What exactly is Auracast?
Auracast™ Broadcast Audio is a new Bluetooth® feature that delivers new audio experiences. With Auracast, you can share your audio, enhancing the way you interact with others and the world around you.
Auracast™ is a new wireless audio transmission technology designed to deliver optimal performance in terms of sound quality, connection reliability and accessibility. It is based on Bluetooth LE Audio (Low Energy Audio) and enables the transmission of an audio signal to a potentially unlimited number of compatible receivers without compromising transmission quality or stability.
Accessible hearing and inclusion are hugely important issues. It enables people with hearing impairments or hearing loss to participate on an equal footing through technical aids. Current hearing systems, such as induction loops, are of great benefit to people with hearing loss, but they do face a number of issues that limit their use, such as poor sound quality, additional costs for end devices, etc.
Auracast™ Broadcast Audio is an advanced, new assistive hearing system that is significantly easier and more cost-effective to install, whilst offering higher audio quality and greater privacy, thereby improving access to audio signals and promoting a better quality of life through better hearing.
How does it work?
1. Bluetooth LE-Audio-Streaming
Auracast™ is based on the Bluetooth Low Energy (LE) standard, which is specifically designed to reduce energy consumption and improve connection quality. Rather than establishing an individual connection between the transmitter and each individual receiver (as is the case with conventional Bluetooth), Auracast™ can send the same audio stream to multiple devices simultaneously.
2. Simplified pairing
Thanks to an innovative pairing process, users can connect to the Auracast™ broadcast quickly and easily. On a smartphone, tablet or other compatible device, users usually simply need to select the desired Auracast™ source to join the broadcast. There is no need to search for or manually pair each individual receiver.
3. Efficient bandwidth management
To broadcast to multiple devices simultaneously, Auracast™ uses an optimised protocol that guarantees low latency and excellent sound quality even in crowded environments (public transport, public spaces, trade fairs, etc.).
4. Summary
Any smartphone, tablet, TV, laptop or sound system that is Auracast-compatible can be used as a transmitter. The transmitted audio signal is broadcast as a stereo audio stream. A data signal containing various details, such as the transmitter name, content, configuration, etc., is also transmitted. This signal is received by an Auracast-enabled receiver device, such as a smartphone, smartwatch, hearing aid, etc.
The receiver device serves solely as a control panel or operating unit for selecting the desired stream. It is therefore not possible to listen directly via the device.
To listen, an Auracast-enabled Bluetooth headset paired with the end device is required. All newly developed Bluetooth headsets from leading manufacturers are already equipped with Auracast technology.
An unlimited number of Auracast™ receivers within range can connect to an Auracast™ transmission from a nearby Auracast™ transmitter.
A rough sketch for further explanation
The benefits of Auracast™
Superb audio quality: Thanks to the LC3 (Low Complexity Communication Codec) from Bluetooth LE Audio, Auracast™ guarantees rich, true-to-life sound reproduction.
Connection to multiple receivers: There is no need to establish a separate connection to each headset or pair of headphones. A single transmitter can broadcast to multiple devices simultaneously.
Low latency: Ideal for conferences, video streaming or any other application requiring precise audio synchronisation.
Energy-efficient: Auracast™ is designed to consume less energy than conventional Bluetooth, thereby extending the battery life of your devices.
Enhanced accessibility: People with hearing impairments or compatible hearing aids can connect directly to the Auracast™ audio stream in public places (cinemas, theatres, conference rooms, etc.).
Areas of application
Auracast will also find its place in many other areas. For example, in public spaces such as airports, railway stations, underground stations, etc., audio information can be streamed to everyone. Users simply select the desired audio stream on their smartphone and immediately receive all relevant information delivered to their ears via an Auracast-enabled headset. Further areas of application include silent screens in fitness centres, bars and restaurants, retail outlets, silent discos, the education sector in schools and universities, guided tours, museums, interpreting and much more.
Examples of use cases:
1. Events and conferences
Imagine a packed conference room where every participant can hear the speaker through their own headphones – without any interference or loss of quality. Auracast™ enables simultaneous interpretation and translation when multiple channels are available.
2. Public transport
In train stations, airports or underground stations, the transmission of announcements via Auracast™ allows everyone to receive them directly on their smartphone or via headphones. A major benefit for accessibility and passenger comfort.
3. Entertainment venues
In cinemas, museums or stadiums, the use of Auracast™ enables the provision of various audio tracks (multilingual, commentary for the visually impaired, etc.) and enhances the experience for every visitor.
4. Education and training
Whether in the classroom or at university, Auracast™ contributes to a better audio experience and makes it easier for all students to hear, particularly those with hearing impairments.
5. Accessible listening and inclusion
In all these applications, participation in social life is made significantly easier, particularly for people with hearing impairments.
Mute your surroundings and still enjoy excellent sound
Auracast™ allows you to fully enjoy monitors and TVs in public spaces via a headset, even when the devices’ speakers are muted. This means everyone can choose exactly which video’s audio they want to hear.
Enhancing the listening experience
Auracast™ enables you to hear perfectly wherever you are. Auracast™ is expected to be the next generation of hearing aid technology, improving access to audio and promoting a better life through better hearing.
Share your audio signals
With Auracast™, you can share your audio experience with others, bringing us closer together.
Explanatory video
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More Informationcourtesy of Opus Technologies
Aura by Opus Technologies
In this brand-new section, we are collaborating with our French partner OPUS Technologies (Audiofils), powered by Aura by Opus:
Opus Technologies is revolutionising the listening experience with Auracast™, a technology that makes sound accessible, immersive and shareable. Whether it’s about meeting individual needs or creating a seamless audio connection in public spaces, all solutions offer a clear, inclusive audio experience tailored to every user.
With Auracast™, Opus reaffirms its commitment to the public and to transforming public spaces into environments where sound is both a means of accessibility and a source of emotion. Welcome to a new era of listening, designed for everyone, everywhere.
And best of all: Aura by Opus is a brand developed in France and manufactured in the EU.
Components:
Auracast transmitters for workstations, reception desks and consultation settings
AuraLoop – Hybrid Auracast transmitter with additional conventional T-coil functionality.
Designed with universal accessibility in mind, this hybrid product is the first to combine both an induction loop and the Auracast™ protocol. Building on this new technology, we are developing unique features that meet today’s requirements and anticipate those of the future.
AuraLoop – Hybrid Auracast transmitter with additional conventional T-coil functionality.
Designed with universal accessibility in mind, this hybrid product is the first to combine both an induction loop and the Auracast™ protocol. Building on this new technology, we are developing unique features that meet today’s requirements and anticipate those of the future.
Furthermore, the AuraLoop+ comes with a desktop gooseneck microphone and an external handset for users without hearing aids, ensuring even better speech transmission.
H-Series, HDC20A
The new H-Series HDC combines the performance of inductive loop technology with the versatility of the new Auracast™ protocol.
Based on this innovative technology, we are developing unique application features tailored to the needs of users today and tomorrow. The system is available as a hybrid version or as an upgradeable version (optional Auracast™ module: Ref. Aura-CA) and, depending on the configuration,
can cover areas of up to 70 m².
Various kits available!
H-Series, HMD1.0A / HMD1.2A
The HMD1.0A is a hybrid amplifier featuring a 3.5 A loop amplifier and an Auracast™ transmitter. When used with its standard power supply (24 V, 3 A), it is suitable for rooms up to 100 m²; when used with the PS-HMD32V power supply, it is suitable for rooms up to 150 m².
The HMD1.2A is a hybrid amplifier featuring a 2-channel loop amplifier (2 × 3.5 A) and an Auracast™ transmitter, which, when used with its standard power supply (24 V, 3 A), is suitable for rooms up to 100 m².
Power supply for rooms up to 100 m² and, with the PS-HMD32V power supply, for rooms up to 150 m². It is supplied with a 24 V, 3 A power supply. The Auracast™ transmitter can be relocated using an optional Auracast™ module (item no.: Aura-CA).
Various kits available!
Auracast transmitters for rooms and halls
AuraGate – Auracast transmitter for wall mounting, available in white and black! 100 m range in open space. Using the bracket supplied, the AuraGate can be installed with ease – either on the wall or on the ceiling. The Auracast is powered via the mains adapter supplied. Using the AuraConnect app on a smartphone or tablet running Android or iOS, you can connect the AuraGate and configure the desired settings, such as transmitter name, audio quality and range, as well as an optional access code if required, to get the device up and running. When access restriction is enabled, the relevant code is provided to authorised users either directly or in the form of a QR code.
AuraOEM
Auracast™ customisation module for industrial use in products featuring loudspeakers.
Save time with our proprietary Auracast module, AurOEM, a subsystem solution. Rely on our expertise in developing embedded Auracast solutions, allowing you to focus entirely on innovation and adding value to your end products and third-party systems.
Aura-CA = AuraOEM + Housing + Power Supply
Compact Auracast™ transmitter for retrofitting switchboard intercoms.
Opus Technologies offers you easy integration of Auracast™ technology into your product thanks to our compact “AurOEM” electronics board! Save time with our proprietary Auracast module, AurOEM, a subsystem solution. Rely on our expertise in developing embedded Auracast solutions, so you can focus entirely on innovation and adding value to your end products and third-party systems.
Mobile AuraCast Transmitter
Auracast transmitter terminal
Any Auracast-compatible smartphone, laptop or tablet can be used as a portable transmitter. TVs, public address systems and audio guide systems can also act as transmitters.
However, this technology is still not very widespread.
AuraCast mobile transmitters and receivers (transceivers)
AuraSTRX – Universal Auracast transceiver with touchscreen for receiving and transmitting Auracast streams. Built-in microphone, QR code reader, accelerometer, USB-C and 3.5 mm jack.
Current features:
• Stereo broadcast synchronisation (low and high transmission quality)
• Touch-based human-machine interface (HMI)
• Dynamic broadcast scan and display
• Touch and button navigation via the HMI
• Battery management
• Lock and power on/off
• Volume up and down
• Play/pause mode during broadcast synchronisation
• Firmware update via USB-C (DFU)
Future features (planned via software updates)
• Broadcast synchronisation regardless of mono or stereo format
• Encrypted stream synchronisation (via password entry via the HMI)
• Automatic transmission synchronisation via QR code scan
• LED management
• Dynamic adjustment of HMI backlighting
• Automatic activation of sleep mode (via the accelerometer)
• Saving of transmission information for later resynchronisation
• Device configuration via USB-C
AuraCast mobile receivers
Auracast receiver headphones and headsets
Any Auracast-compatible headset, headphones or hearing aids can be used as a receiver. The desired content is selected via the Auracast-enabled smartphone. It therefore acts as a remote control for the audio device.
However, it is still not very widespread at present.
Auracast App
Using the AuraConnect app on a smartphone or tablet running Android or iOS, you can connect the AuraGate and configure the desired settings, such as station name, audio quality and range.
AuraConnect makes configuring and managing your Aura By Opus products a breeze. The app has been designed to fit seamlessly into the EasyConfig philosophy, making the complicated simple. Everything can be done in just a few clicks – directly from your smartphone.
Auracast Software
