In this article, learn about the following remote control FAQs:
What is the remote control feature?
How does the remote control work in the Eargo app?
How do my phone and Eargo app settings impact remote control functionality?
How should I position my phone to use the remote control feature?
Additional tips for successful remote control use
What is the remote control feature?
Depending on your product, the Eargo app home screen provides access to various Device controls including Programs, Volume, and Noise Filter or Filter. Each of these individual control screens functions similarly to the remote control for your TV in that you can personalize your Eargo Devices without even removing them from your ears! You don’t even need to have your Eargo Charger nearby to use the remote control. This means that you can make discreet on-the-go adjustments to your Devices right from the app.
The ability to configure lasting volume settings for each program (and each ear), switch between the active program, enable or disable a program, temporarily increase or decrease the volume for the active program, and even mute or unmute your devices is all right there at your fingertips. Pretty neat, right!? Continue reading below to find out how Eargo makes this happen. Spoiler alert: It’s not magic…
How does the remote control work in the Eargo app?
TV remote controls work by using a type of light called infrared. The remote has a light inside that quickly flashes when a button or combination of buttons is pressed. This light sends a unique message from the remote control (e.g. volume up) which is received by the TV.
Instead of infrared, the Eargo app similarly sends unique ultrasonic (or ultra-high frequency) commands via your phone’s speaker each time you make fine-tuning adjustments using the remote control feature. Don’t be surprised if Fido’s ears perk up as some pets (and people for that matter) can detect them with their super hearing.
Next, assuming they're clean (more on that later), the microphones on each of your Eargo devices will detect the unique ultrasonic command sent from your phone. If you’ve updated your Eargo app to the latest version, you’ll hear a cue tone or a voice prompt depending on the adjustment made when the command is successfully received by each Hearing Device. Voila! Your preferences have now been saved. The same ultrasonic command technology is also utilized when completing Sound Match in the Eargo app. Continue reading below to learn about additional tips for successful remote control use.
How do my phone and Eargo app settings impact remote control functionality?
On iOS:
To use your iPhone as a remote control, we recommend you set your iPhone's volume to 100% with Eargo app v4.0 or later. Maximum volume may be required, especially in noisy environments.
The minimum phone volume required to use the remote control successfully on an Apple device is 20%. The icon on the home screen will notify you on any of the control screens when the volume on your phone is too low (below 20%).
Ignoring this alert may prevent your Eargos from syncing with the app. Tap the icon anytime to view instructions or use your phone’s volume up or down buttons to adjust the volume for the remote control.
On Android:
To use your Android phone as a remote control, we recommend setting your phone's volume between 60-100% with Eargo app v3.0 or later. Your Device cannot be set to mute, vibrate, or Do Not Disturb. Maximum volume may be required, especially in noisy environments.
This slide-up screen will only appear on the control screens once per session. If your Android device volume is below 60% and you close and relaunch the app or navigate to the app menu and return to the control screens, the mobile app will notify you again that an adjustment is needed. Selecting ignore may prevent your Eargos from syncing with the app.
On ALL mobile devices:
Speaker Access: Ensure that you are not on a live phone call when trying to use the Eargo app. Remember, the app uses ultrasonic commands sent through your phone’s speakers to communicate with your Devices in-ear. If you are actively on a call or using the speakerphone, the remote control feature in the Eargo app will not work properly.
The same concept applies to other apps installed on your phone. Occasionally, other apps for games, video streaming, or music may be utilizing your phone’s speaker. These types of apps cannot be simultaneously ‘on-deck’ or open and running in the background on your phone. To use the remote control feature successfully, simply close (not just minimize) these other types of apps then try to send any adjustments you were attempting to make again.
How should I position my phone to use the remote control feature?
To ensure that the ultrasonic commands are received by both Hearing Devices, please hold your phone as pictured below when making remote control adjustments and taking Sound Match. Keep the following in mind:
Eargo recommends holding your phone directly in front of your chest like you’re reading a book. If you position it too far down in your lap, off to the side, or have your head turned to either side when making an adjustment, the command sent from the Eargo app may not reach one or both hearing devices. Should only one hearing device receive the command, hold the phone closer to the “missed” ear and try again.
High-noise environments can also impact the successful receipt of ultrasonic commands and may require you to hold your phone closer to the ear(s) or even briefly move to a quieter location to make changes.
Additional tips for successful remote control use
For your Dearing Devices to successfully receive the ultrasonic remote control commands sent from the Eargo app:
The microphones on each of your Eargos must be clean.
Your phone's speaker ports must be clean. Debris from your pocket or purse may clog the speaker so please brush it off.
Ensure your phone case does not cover your phone's speakers.
Ensure your fingers are not blocking the pathway of your phone's speakers (see image below).
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