Safety systems specialist Ardent says it is proud to announce that its induction hearing loop system ClearConnect has received endorsement from charity Deaf Action for the incorporation of pink noise, setting a new standard in accessibility for individuals who are hard of hearing.
Launched in January 2024 Ardent says ClearConnect has been specifically engineered to enhance the travel experience for passengers living with deafness, providing seamless communication of vital information, such as ‘next stop’ announcements and driver alerts, directly to their hearing aids.
Deaf Action supports the diversity of deaf people in the South of England and Scotland. Ardent says that the charity’s approval of ClearConnect is crucial, and will act as an endorsement that reflects the commitment of Deaf Action to advancing accessibility and inclusivity for the diverse spectrum of individuals within the deaf community.
ClearConnect incorporates ‘pink noise’ technology to filter out background interference, eliminating potential discomfort for users; ‘pink noise,’ among the various ‘colours’ of noise, is said to be a valuable tool for individuals seeking to mitigate background distractions, enhance concentration, or promote better sleep.
The company says that while white noise has garnered more research attention, studies indicate that pink noise could offer similar benefits, particularly in enhancing focus. As a result, incorporating pink noise technology represents a significant advancement in enhancing accessibility and comfort for deaf individuals, Ardent says, ensuring clear communication in noisy environments.
Deaf Action Digital Inclusion Officer Megan Wolff commented: “We are thrilled about the addition of pink noise to ClearConnect. This marks a significant step forward in improving accessibility for individuals that are hard of hearing. By incorporating pink noise to eliminate background interference, ClearConnect ensures users can access important information with clarity and comfort, ultimately enhancing their overall travel experience.”
Emma Kirk, Head of Sales at Ardent, emphasised the company’s commitment to prioritising passenger experience: “ClearConnect has been meticulously designed with the passenger in mind, reflecting our dedication to inclusivity and accessibility in public transport. We believe every individual deserves equal access to information, and ClearConnect achieves this by leveraging innovative technology to deliver a seamless user experience.”
ClearConnect has already been trialled at Brighton & Hove Buses by 15 deaf passengers from The Royal National Institute for Deaf People. Ardent says there was positive feedback from users, and the endorsement from Deaf Action underscores its role in revolutionising accessibility for hearing aid users in public transport settings.