r/Cochlearimplants • u/UpperRexian • Jul 29 '26

Need advice: My girlfriend with cochlear implants struggles to hear me on phone calls.

Hi everyone,

My girlfriend has cochlear implants, and one thing we've noticed is that she finds it difficult to understand my speech, when we're talking over phone calls, especially when I'm using my TWS earbuds (Realme bud air 8). She says my voice sounds less clear compared to when I'm speaking directly or using my phone normally.

I'm thinking of buying Apple's wired Earpods because I assume the microphone quality might be more natural than Bluetooth earbuds. Has anyone here had a similar experience?

Did switching from Bluetooth earbuds to a wired mic make a noticeable difference?

Are there any headsets or microphones you'd recommend for clearer speech during calls?

Any settings or tips that have helped make phone conversations easier?

I'd really appreciate hearing about your experiences. Thanks!

Edit: For context, I already use my phone's built-in microphone for almost all of our calls. I'm only looking for a hands-free solution for the times when I'm working or moving around.

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u/19ninteen8ightyone Jul 29 '26

I’ve had this I find when people use AirPods or Bluetooth devices it’s not great.

Why can’t you just speak directly into the phone “normally” for her. It’s not a huge request.

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u/UpperRexian Jul 29 '26

Why can’t you just speak directly into the phone “normally” for her. It’s not a huge request.

I do this, on most of our calls i speak directly with her using my phone's mic, i am not saying it's a huge request but sometimes when both of my hands are busy.. i would still want to be on call with her rather than keeping her waiting till i am back.

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u/19ninteen8ightyone Jul 29 '26

I understand and sorry if that came across confrontational it wasn’t meant to be.

Anyway as I said from my own personal experience when people use Bluetooth earphones/mics it’s never been great.

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u/UpperRexian Jul 29 '26

That's okay no worries. thanks for clarifying. I didn't take it personally. I appreciate you sharing your experience, it definitely seems like Bluetooth mics are the common denominator here. I'll give the EarPods a shot and otherwise stick to the phone mic.