BlueBird Communications LLC (BlueBird) is a Wireless Telecom Service Provider. The following Terms and Conditions apply to all devices, service plans, and top-ups that are activated on or used with BlueBird services. Terms and Conditions go into effect upon activation of or porting of device and/or service on the BlueBird network and are a legally binding agreement between the customer/subscriber (you) and BlueBird (the Company). These Terms and Conditions of Service contain pertinent information about your consumer rights.
BlueBird reserves the right to change or modify our Terms and Conditions of Service at any time and its sole discretion. Changes made to the Terms and Conditions of Service will become effective at the time the change is posted on BlueBird website, unless otherwise required by law. The Company will notify subscribers, at their sole discretion, if changes to the Terms and Conditions will be materially averse to service, or when required by notification regulations. If a subscriber does not terminate service within 30 days of receiving notice, the subscriber is deemed as in agreement and accepts any and all changes to the Terms and Conditions.
Unless expressly prohibited by law, BlueBird reserves the right to modify or cancel a subscriber’s service, an account, or take corrective action at any time and for any reason, including, but not limited to, violation of any provision of these Terms and Conditions of Service. A subscriber’s right to use BlueBird service is subject to BlueBird business practices, policies, procedures, rates, and Terms and Conditions of Service.
Terms and Conditions of Service post on the BlueBird website for review are the most updated document available for consumer availability.
Lifeline benefits provided through BlueBird are monthly supported services that reduce the cost of monthly wireless and/or data service, and device discount credit when applicable on approved and supported devices. Lifeline supported discounts will be provided based on program rules and qualifications in those states where BlueBird has been granted approval to provide such services, and where service has been made available. All program rules, eligibility, and qualifications will be followed for applying for and maintaining discounted services under Lifeline Program.
Lifeline Program is a government benefit program that is operated by the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) and provides discounts on monthly broadband Internet access service and approved connected devices. Lifeline Program provides discounts of up to $30 per eligible household on monthly broadband Internet access service (or up to $75 per eligible household on Tribal lands) and up to $100 on approved connected devices (with a required co-payment from the subscriber between $10 and $50). Lifeline Program monthly service and device discounts cannot be transferred to another household or individual. An eligible household is limited to one monthly service discount and a one-time device discount. Lifeline Program benefits may be obtained from any participating provider and monthly benefits may be transferred to another provider. ACP services and devices are subject to consumer eligibility, provider participation, product availability, and approval by the FCC and the program administrator, the Universal Service Administrative Company (USAC).
Eligibility for Lifeline Program benefits and service with BlueBird is based on participation in an approved Federal or State program qualifier, household income eligibility standards, as defined by the program rules and regulations. Some states may choose to offer a state-only discount-based state-approved program.
When completing the application for Lifeline Program service with BlueBird, the potential subscriber acknowledges and consents to their name, telephone number, address, and any other required information to be given to the National Verifier (NV) and USAC and/or its agents for the purpose of verifying subscriber eligibility to participate in Lifeline Program and that they do not receive more than one Lifeline Program benefit. The potential subscriber also grants authorization to BlueBird to access any records required to verify the subscriber’s statements herein and to confirm continued eligibility for Lifeline Program assistance. This consent survives any termination of this agreement. Refusal to grant this permission will immediately deem the potential subscriber as ineligible for an Lifeline Program benefit with BlueBird.
Eligibility
A household is defined, for the purposes of Lifeline Program, as a group of people who live together at the same address and share income and expenses. An eligible household does not have to purchase an Lifeline Program discounted connected device in order to enroll in Lifeline Program and receive monthly service discounts. According to Lifeline Program rules, a household is eligible to receive an Lifeline Program benefit if a member of the household meets one of the criteria outlined below:
Lifeline Program Program Restrictions
Subscribers applying for service within these programs agree and declare under the penalty of perjury to all of the following conditions:
Annual Recertification, Verification, or Termination of Program
Subscribers participating in Lifeline Program with BlueBird will be required to recertify their eligibility on an annual basis in order to continue receiving an Lifeline Program discount on their service, according to federal recertification or verification requirements. BlueBird reserves the right to determine, at its sole discretion, if a subscriber meets the annual recertification or verification requirements and if the subscriber fails to re-qualify for an Lifeline Program benefit. If BlueBird is unable to recertify or verify the required Lifeline Program qualifications, the subscriber will be deemed ineligible to further participate in Lifeline Program with BlueBird. The subscriber’s discounted wireless broadband plan will be discontinued.
BlueBird has the right to cancel or suspend, without notice, a subscriber’s account for any fraudulent related reasons or upon the request of any state or federal authority’s request. BlueBird subscribers have the ability to terminate from Lifeline Program for any reason.
Subscribers who choose to terminate their Lifeline Program benefit may contact BlueBird. Upon termination from the program, subscribers will no longer receive discounted services each month and may be required to recertify for Lifeline Program program if they choose to re-enroll.
Written notices must include the name listed on the account and any identity-related information required to verify the account, and can be sent to:
BlueBird LLC.
Attn: Lifeline Program Disconnect
9030 State Route 22
Suite 3
Hillsdale, NY 12529
Subscribers may also contact our Customer Support Representatives directly at 1-888-896-6916.
Lifeline Program Account Activity Requirement
To keep an account active and receive an Lifeline Program benefit, subscribers must use the service at least once during any 30-day period by completing an outbound call, sending a text message, using cellular data, purchasing additional service from BlueBird, answering an inbound call from someone other than BlueBird, or by responding to a direct contact from BlueBird confirming that service is still desired. If service goes unused for 30 days, subscribers may no longer be eligible for Lifeline Program benefits and service may be suspended subject to a 15-day cure period during which you must use the service (as described above) in order to fully re-activate service and remain enrolled in Lifeline Program. Additional usage definitions will be consistent with those defined in 47 C.F.R§ 54.407(c)(2).
Lifeline Program Discontinuance
If the FCC announces that funding for Lifeline Program has been exhausted, or BlueBird discontinues its Lifeline Program service offering, or the Company determines a subscriber is no longer eligible for Lifeline Program discount benefits, subscribers will be notified in accordance with rules and regulations set forth by the FCC and USAC.
BlueBird service is provided at the company’s discretion. The Company provides services using the geographic areas of the underlying carrier territories in which BlueBird has service agreements.BlueBird does not guarantee coverage availability in all areas. Quality of service may be affected by conditions beyond the control of BlueBird, including atmospheric, geographical, or topographical conditions. Service may also be affected by damaged devices. BlueBird does not guarantee or warrant that service will be available at any specific time or geographical location, or that service will be provided without possible interruption.
Subscribers may not alter any of the software or hardware on an BlueBird device for any purpose, as outlined in the BlueBird Device Unlocking Policy.
Service Plans
BlueBird is a designated service provider for the government-funded Affordable Connectivity Program across multiple states. For a complete list of serviced areas, please visit https://www.bluebirdphone.com/Cellular/presence.html.
BlueBird provides broadband service at speeds that meet or exceed the FCC’s mobile broadband minimum standards but reserves the right to reduce download speeds when necessary while still complying with FCC standards.
DATA SPEEDS ARE NOT GUARANTEED. BlueBird does not guarantee the speeds of the data services it provides. Data speeds are dependent on many factors including reception, tower traffic, device capabilities, and other additional factors. BlueBird reserves the right to prioritize data use during periods of network congestion or high individual daily usages by throttling data speed. Reduced speeds and increased latency may cause websites to load more slowly or affect the performance of data-heavy activities such as video streaming or interactive gaming. Additional scenarios that vary data speeds and performance may exist in accordance with underlying carrier network management practices.
Data Top-Ups
BlueBird offers additional data top-ups available for purchase. Top-up plans will expire after 60 days if not used in full. Offerings are available based on underlying carrier and may not be available for purchase in all areas. Applicable taxes and fees may apply at the sole responsibility of the subscriber.
Data Top-Ups are available in the following increments:
1 GB for $5
3 GB for $10
7 GB for $20
15 GB for $30
BlueBird reserves the right to make changes to data top-up offerings at their sole discretion.
Broadband Speeds
Service plan Terms and Conditions may limit the amount of high-speed data included with each rate plan and the actual speeds achieved while using the Company’s broadband services. Other factors, including device, network availability from underlying carriers, proximity to cellular towers, and environmental factors may affect speeds.
Activation Fee
BlueBird reserves the right to charge a service activation fee. This fee is at the discretion of BlueBird and may vary by state.
Device Warranties
BlueBird offers a Standard Device Warranty of 14 days on all of the devices offered and purchased through the Company.
Equipment Requirements
Devices utilized by BlueBird customers receiving a data subsidy through Lifeline Program will comply with all Federal and/or State regulations and will be, at minimum, Wi-Fi enabled and 4G capable devices. BlueBird devices will follow phase-in requirements as necessary and ordered.
Location-Based Services
Devices offered by BlueBird may be location-enabled, meaning the device is capable of using optional Goods, Content, and Services, at the request of the subscriber, offered by BlueBird or third parties that make use of a user’s location (Location Based Services), using location technology such as Global Positioning Satellite (GPS), wireless network location, or other location technology. Review the Terms and Conditions and the associated Privacy Policy for each Location Based Service to learn how the information provided will be used and protected. BlueBird may also use location information to create aggregate data, subject to our Privacy Policy for services like traffic monitoring and delivery of targeted advertising. It is the responsibility of the subscriber to notify any users of their account that the device may be location enabled. The use of certain Location Based Services or the disclosure of location information may be restricted by use of parental controls or similar features. Please visit www.bluebirdphone.com/Cellular/privacy-policy.
BlueBird Prohibited Network Uses Policy
BlueBird services and equipment may not be used for any unlawful, fraudulent, harassing, or abusive purpose. By requesting BlueBird services, subscribers agree not to use services and equipment for any unlawful, fraudulent, harassing, or abusive manner.
BlueBird reserves the right, without notice or limitation, to limit, deny, terminate, end, modify, disconnect, or suspend service to any individual whose usage is deemed excessive compared to that of the average subscriber, if an individual engages in any of the prohibited voice, text, or data uses detailed below, or if BlueBird determines, on a case-by-case basis, that action is necessary to protect its wireless network, business, equipment, or services from harm or degradation resulting from such prohibited uses.
The BlueBird Prohibited Network Use Policy applies to all BlueBird voice, text, and data plans, including unlimited plans. Unlimited use does not mean impermissible or unreasonable use, as set forth in these Terms and Conditions. Testing of subscriber usage may be performed by BlueBird. If BlueBird finds a subscriber to be using unlimited voice, text, or data services for any of the prohibited uses outlined in the Terms and Conditions of Service, the Company may, at its sole discretion, terminate service or adjust a rate plan. BlueBird will provide notice to the subscriber that it intends to take any of the above actions and give the subscriber an opportunity to terminate the agreement.
Agreement to Terms of Service: By initiating service and placing calls, using text, and/or using data on the BlueBird network, subscribers acknowledge and agree to the complete Terms and Conditions of Service listed on this website.
Voice and Text Services
BlueBird devices may not have voice and text capabilities. Should a device be enabled with such capabilities, the services provided are for live dialogue between, and initiated by, individuals for personal (i.e. non-commercial) use and as otherwise described in this policy. BlueBird services are not intended for any other purpose, including but not limited to: conference calling, monitoring services, data transmissions, transmission of broadcasts, transmission of recorded material, telemarketing, broadcast or autodialed calls or texts, commercial uses, or other connections that do not consist of uninterrupted live dialogue between individuals. This service may not be used in a manner that interferes with other BlueBird subscribers use of this service.
Data Services
BlueBird data services are provided only for personal (i.e., non- commercial) use, which includes web surfing, sending and receiving email, photographs and other similar messaging activities, and the non- continuous streaming of videos, downloading of files or online gaming. BlueBird data services may not be used for any of the following uses: (1) to generate excessive levels of Internet traffic through the continuous, unattended streaming, downloading or uploading of videos, music, or other files, or to operate hosting services including, but not limited to, web or gaming hosting; (2) to maintain continuous active network connections to the Internet, for example, through a web camera or machine-to-machine connections that do not involve active participation by a person; (3) to disrupt email use by others using automated or manual routines, including, but not limited to “auto-responders” or cancel bots or other similar routines; (4) to transmit or facilitate any unsolicited or unauthorized advertising, telemarketing, promotional materials, “junk mail,” unsolicited commercial or bulk email, or fax; (5) for activities that adversely affect the ability of other people or systems to use either BlueBird Services or other parties Internet-based resources, including, but not limited to, “denial of service” (DoS) attacks against another network host or individual user; (6) for an activity that connects any device to personal computers (including without limitation, laptops), or other equipment for the purpose of transmitting wireless data over the network (unless customer is using an BlueBird device designated for such usage); or (7) for any other reason that violates policy.
As of the published date of these Terms and Conditions, BlueBird does not lock devices on its network. Should the Company determine to lock devices, reasonable notice to its subscribers will be given, and the following policy will apply for unlock requests:
Limitations
This policy is subject to BlueBird Terms and Conditions of Service and may change without notice. The Company may request proof of purchase of device or additional information at its discretion and certain other exceptions may apply.
BlueBird may deny any request for a device unlock code at its sole discretion if there is a reasonable basis to believe that the request is an effort to defraud the company or its customers, or that the device is stolen. As a reseller of wireless service, BlueBird unlocking policy may be subject to additional limitations imposed by our underlying carrier(s).
Interoperability
Carriers typically use different frequencies and air interface technologies to provide wireless network access. As a result, a device that works on one carrier’s network may not be technologically compatible with another carrier’s network. Unlocking a device refers only to disabling software that would prevent a customer from attempting to activate a device designed for one carrier’s network on another carrier’s network, even if that network is technologically compatible. Unlocking a device will not necessarily enable a device interoperable with other networks. Unlocking a device may enable some functionality of the device but not all.
BlueBird Taxes and Surcharges
BlueBird may charge state and local taxes when applicable. Pricing listed on the BlueBird website or listed in advertising methods for BlueBird may not include certain taxes or surcharges. Subscribers are responsible for all charges applicable to the use of BlueBird service, regardless of whether the subscriber was the actual user of the service. The amount of these taxes and surcharges are subject to change and may vary by geographic area. BlueBird may charge and collect taxes and regulatory fees on all offerings in each state. Third party authorized retailers who sell BlueBird services or products may become responsible for the collecting and paying of all taxes and required regulatory fees for transactions that occur through such third-party authorized retailers. Changes to a tax or surcharge will become effective as provided by the appropriate taxing authority and changes to applicable contribution amounts for Federal Universal Service Fund (“FUSF”) will apply. Taxes and fees are subject to change without notice.
International Calling and Text Messaging
BlueBird does not offer or allow international calling or text messaging. Attempting to make international calls or send international text messages could result in the deactivation of service and de- enrollment from BlueBird / Lifeline Program.
Preventing or Sending Spam
BlueBird subscribers receiving unwanted text messages should contact the source and request to unsubscribe or remove the subscriber’s contact information from the service. If an BlueBird subscriber intentionally sends spam from an BlueBird device, the subscriber may be terminated without notice. Contact BlueBird Customer Support at 1-888-896-6916 if additional help or information is required.
BlueBird reserves the right to send messages to its subscribers pertaining to important account information.
BlueBird Directory Assistance, Additional Charges, and Services
In the event an BlueBird device is call and text enabled, Directory Assistance calls are not charged at a rate per call. Directory Assistance calls are deducted from subscriber’s available minutes at a 1:1 ratio.
BlueBird reserves the right to access a rate per call in the future. Notice of such will be added to these Terms and Conditions of Service and will be posted to our website.
Calls to 900 / 976 or other pay-per-call service numbers are not available to BlueBird subscribers. BlueBird will block any calls to 1-900, 1-976, some international calling, or other pay-per-call services. If any charges are received by BlueBird from the underlying carrier for these types of calls, these charges will be passed through to the end user for payment. Nonpayment of these charges when billed to the subscriber will constitute automatic disconnection of service.
Calls placed to 800/866/877 or other toll-free numbers will incur standard minute usage of a 1:1 ratio. BlueBird allows subscribers with capable devices to make or receive domestic long-distance calls inside the domestic USA provided coverage is available. BlueBird does not allow free calls to other subscribers using BlueBird service. BlueBird devices do not provide rate information for services used to make or receive voice calls or messages. If a subscriber’s account is deactivated for any reason, BlueBird reserves the right to charge subscribers a standard reactivation fee, which is not refundable.
BlueBird Subscriber Account History
Subscriber usage history is available upon request. Requests for a printed copy of account history can be by calling Customer Support at 1-888-896-6916, emailing support@bluebirdphone.com or by sending a written request to:
BlueBird
Attn: Customer Support
447 Broadway, 2nd Fl #155
New York, NY 10013 USA
BlueBird Refunds, Returns, or Lost Equipment Policy
Outside of the warranty window and at its sole discretion, BlueBird is not responsible for refunds for lost, stolen, misused, damaged, or destroyed devices, accessories, or Top-Up purchases. The customer is responsible for purchasing replacement devices, accessories, or tablets at their expense. All purchases of Top-Ups are final and non-refundable, regardless of who uses or possesses the subscriber’s device after the product is purchased, and regardless of whether the device is used without the subscriber’s consent or knowledge. Notwithstanding the foregoing, BlueBird may, at its sole discretion, opt to provide a refund. Top-Up purchases have no cash value and are non-refundable, cannot be transferred to another BlueBird account or subscriber, and may not be exchanged, transferred, resold, redeemed, or substituted for cash, merchandise, or services. If service is terminated, subscriber’s forfeit and are not entitled to a full or partial refund for any unused top-up balance.
Prepaid Plan Refund Policy
If a subscriber has purchased a prepaid rate plan and decides to transfer their Lifeline Program service to another designated service provider, opts to terminate service, or is found ineligible for Lifeline Program service, a refund of unused service will be issued. Prepaid annual plan refunds will be prorated on a monthly basis, meaning the refund will be issued for subsequent months of non-service and, if the service anniversary date has passed for the current month, the subscriber will not receive the refund for that month.
Promotions and Rewards
BlueBird may, from time to time, provide promotional credits or promotional offers. Promotional credits are typically courtesy account credits due to service issues, device issues, or customer inconveniences. Promotional offers are typically plan, device, and pricing offers that are available for a limited time or when a subscriber meets certain conditions, as outlined by the Company. Promotions are offered at the sole discretion of the Company. Promotions can only be claimed and redeemed by account holders and only will be associated with the account of the customer who was offered the promotion. Promotions may not be sold or transferred to another BlueBird account or to any other person. Promotions have no fixed or cash value or equivalent, and may not be exchanged, transferred, resold, redeemed, or substituted for cash, merchandise, or services. If service is terminated your service, all promotional credit will be forfeited. Promotions may be subject to additional terms and conditions as described when offered to a subscriber.
Returns
Devices purchased from BlueBird may be returned for a full refund, issued only via check, within 7 days of receipt. This excludes promotional devices. A subscriber must return the device and all accessories as was distributed and purchased at the time of activation, and in the same condition as when it was received.
For instructions, contact BlueBird Customer Support.
BlueBird provides new and/or recycled devices to its subscribers. All make and models provided to Lifeline Program benefit recipients are selected at the sole discretion of BlueBird. All new-in-box devices purchased from BlueBird include a 14-day warranty from BlueBird. If a device malfunction is experienced, please call BlueBird Customer Support at 1-888-896-6916.
Lost or Stolen Equipment
BlueBird subscribers who experience a lost or stolen device are responsible for all charged incurred on the device until BlueBird is notified of the lost or stolen device. To report a lost or stolen device, please contact Customer Support at 1-888-896-6916 immediately. Upon receiving notice of the lost or stolen device, BlueBird will ‘hotline’ the account immediately. If the subscriber does not either activate a new device or notify the Company that the device has been found within 14 days of suspension of the account, the account will be disconnected.
Use of BlueBird Customer Information
By agreeing to the Terms and Conditions of Service herein, subscribers also agree to the terms of BlueBird Privacy Policy. The Privacy Policy may change from time to time and includes important information on what data the Company collects about you, how the data is used, and with whom the data is shared.
Customer Proprietary Network Information (CPNI) is information that BlueBird obtains when providing services to its subscribers. CPNI includes the types of services purchased, how they are used, and the billing information related to those services, including items such as the types of local, long distance, data usage and wireless telecommunications services that were purchased and usage details. Subscriber’s telephone number, name and address are not considered CPNI, but are considered Proprietary Information (PI) protected by law. As required by law, BlueBird has taken steps to protect the confidentiality of your CPNI and PI.
Privacy and Security
Customer privacy and security are important to BlueBird. The Company employs reasonable physical, electronic, and procedural safeguards to protect personal information when a subscriber gains access to the Internet using IP services. In addition, the Company takes reasonable steps to protect all subscriber personal information from unauthorized use, access, or disclosure. For more information about BlueBird privacy and security practices, you can view the Privacy Policy located at www.bluebirdphone.com/Cellular/privacy-policy.
Limitation of Liability
BlueBird will not be liable to the subscriber or related parties, for any direct or indirect, special, incidental, consequential, exemplary or punitive damages of any kind, including lost or potential profits (regardless of whether it has been notified such loss may occur) by reason of any act or omission in its provision of equipment and/or services. BlueBird will not be liable for any act or omission of any other company furnishing a part of our services, or our equipment or for any damages that result from any service or equipment provided by or manufactured by affiliated or non-affiliated third parties. BlueBird is not responsible, at any time, and shall not be liable to the subscriber or anyone else for any personal information such as usernames, passwords, contacts, pictures, SMS, or any additional content that may have stored on an BlueBird device or which may remain on that device during and/or after it is no longer receiving service from BlueBird. Unless prohibited by law, the subscriber agrees to limit claims for damages or other monetary relief against each other to direct and actual damages. BlueBird assumes no risk or responsibility for a subscriber’s use of any content provided by BlueBird services. There is no fiduciary duty that exists between the subscriber and BlueBird or its affiliates. Subscribers also agree that BlueBird will not be liable for any missed voicemails, any messages from your voicemail system, any data content, or any storage or deletion of contacts from a device address book provided by BlueBird.
Indemnification
To the full extent permitted by law, subscribers agree to hold harmless and indemnify BlueBird and its affiliates and their respective officers, agents, directors, partners and employees, from any and all liabilities, settlements, penalties, claims, causes of action and demands brought by third parties (including any costs, expenses or attorneys’ fees on account thereof), directly or indirectly, resulting from use of BlueBird products and services, or another person whom has been authorized or not to use the products or services, whether based in contract or tort (including strict liability) and regardless of the form of action. This obligation shall survive any expiration or termination of service with BlueBird. A subscriber may reside in a state that does not allow disclaimers of implied warranties or limits remedies for breach. Therefore, the above exclusions or limitations may not apply to all subscribers. A subscriber may have other legal rights that vary by state.
Except for the limited warranties expressly set forth in these Terms and Conditions, and to the extent permitted by law, the services and devices are provided on an “as is” and “with all faults” basis and without any other warranties (including express or implied) of any kind to the fullest extent permitted by law. BlueBird makes no representations or warranties, express or implied, including any implied warranty of merchantability or fitness for a particular purpose concerning services or devices. BlueBird cannot promise uninterrupted or error-free service and does not authorize anyone to make any warranties on its behalf. BlueBird does not guarantee that communications will be private or secure; such interceptions can occur and BlueBird shall have no liability in the event that communications and or connections are intercepted.
Limited Warranty for Devices
A limited warranty of 14 days is provided on all BlueBird devices. This limited warranty covers against defects in materials and workmanship under normal use by the subscriber.
Limited Warranty Exchange Policy
BlueBird customers have up to 14 days from the delivery date of their device to notify the Company of a defective device and/or accessories. The device must then be returned within 30 days of notification.
BlueBird will exchange a defective device with a replacement device, at their sole discretion, during this period. For a defective device replacement, contact BlueBird Customer Support at 1-888-896-6916.
How to Obtain Warranty Service
To obtain warranty service from BlueBird, contact Customer Support at 1-888-896-6916. If an issue cannot be resolved over the phone, BlueBird technicians will provide subscribers with an RMA number, which will be used to send the device to the designated BlueBird Service Center for replacement, at the discretion of BlueBird.
Terms of Limited Warranty
BlueBird warrants the subscriber that the BlueBird device is free from defects in material and workmanship that may result in product failure during normal usage, according to the following Terms and Conditions of Service:
Notices
Written notices can be sent to BlueBird at:
BlueBird
Lifeline Program Department
447 Broadway, 2nd Fl #155
New York, NY 10013 USA
Emailed notices can be send to BlueBird at support@bluebirdphone.com
Notices made by phone can be done by calling Customer Support at 1-888-896-6916.
Notices will be considered effective after received by BlueBird. If a subscriber is unable to resolve concerns with BlueBird they may file a complaint with the Federal Communications Commission or their state commission board. Any notice sent to a subscriber will be sent to the last known residence on file, or via text message to your contact phone number provided during account activation.
Hearing Aid Compatibility
The wireless telephone industry has developed ratings to assist hearing device users in finding wireless devices that may be compatible with hearing devices. Not all wireless devices have been rated. Wireless devices that are rated will have the rating displayed on their box together with other relevant approval markings. These ratings are not guarantees. Results will vary depending on your hearing device and hearing loss. If a hearing device is vulnerable to interference, it may not be able to use a rated wireless device successfully.
M-Ratings: Wireless devices rated M3 or M4 meet FCC requirements and are likely to generate less interference to hearing devices than wireless devices that are not labeled. M4 is the better/higher of the two ratings.
T-Ratings: Wireless devices rated T3 or T4 meet FCC requirements and are likely to be more usable with a hearing device’s telecoil (T Switch or Telephone Switch) than unrated wireless devices. T4 is the better/higher of the two ratings. (Note that not all hearing devices have telecoils in them). When wireless devices are used near hearing devices (such as hearing aids and cochlear implants), users may detect a buzzing, humming, or whining noise. Some hearing devices are more immune than others to this interference, and wireless devices also vary in the amount of interference they generate. Hearing devices may also be measured for immunity to this type of interference. The more immune the hearing aid is, the less likely a customer is to experience interference noise from wireless devices. Hearing device manufacturers or hearing health professionals may help find results for hearing devices. Assist offers handsets with different levels of functionality described as follows:
Functionality Level A indicates a phone that is at least SMS, Camera, Bluetooth, USB, and Data Capable.
Functionality Level B indicates a phone that is at least SMS, Camera, and Data Capable.
Functionality Level C indicates a phone that is at least SMS and Data Capable.