HAC Ratings

Pursuant to applicable FCC rules and regulations, Southern Linc currently groups its handset portfolio into three (3) levels of functionality. Factors used by Southern Linc in developing "levels of functionality" include, but are not limited to, technical specifications, ergonomic features, retail price, and targeted or likely end-user groups. A description of Southern Linc' levels of functionality is set forth below:

Functionality Level Description Models
A

Handsets for use by the general consumer population in routine daily voice and text message communications.
B

Rugged handsets for use by consumers engaged in construction, building services trades, utilities and public safety operations.

 CAT S62, Sonim XP5s
C

Handsets provide access to email, full QWERTY keyboard, along with an advanced operating system with the ability to install applications.

 Sonim XP8, Samsung A53, Samsung S22, Samsung S22+, Samsung S10e, Samsung A52, Samsung A21, Samsung S20FE, Cat S62, Samsung A54, Samsung S23, Samsung Xcover6 Pro

HAC Models Currently Available from Southern Linc

Southern Linc has several handsets that are Hearing Aid Compliant. To learn more or to purchase a HAC handset online, click on one of the models below.

M Ratings and Acoustic Coupling

Wireless phones rated "M3" or "M4" meet the FCC requirements for hearing aid compatibility and are likely to generate less interference with hearing aid devices. "M" refers to using the phone with a hearing aid in the microphone or acoustic coupling setting and amplifies the sounds surrounding the user. The higher the "M" rating, the more likely it is you will be able to use the phone with your hearing aid on this setting. Thus, M4 is the "better" or higher of the two ratings.

T Ratings and Inductive Coupling

"T" refers to using the hearing aid set on telecoil. The higher the "T" number, the more likely you will receive better interoperability performance between your phone and hearing aid on the telecoil setting. Thus, the T4 is the "better" or higher of the two ratings. Reduced feedback and reduced background noise are additional benefits of using a hearing aid set on telecoil during phone use. To determine the likelihood of successful cell phone use with your hearing aid, add the "T" rating number of the cell phone to the "T" rating number of your hearing aid.

Non HAC models Currently Available from Southern Linc (Same format as “HAC Models Currently Available from Southern Linc”)

Southern Linc does not currently offer any non-hearing aid-compatible handset models. For more information on the FCC’s wireless hearing aid compatibility rules and service provider’s obligations visit: https://www.fcc.gov/hearing-aid-compatibility-wireless-telephones.

Revised 7-31-23