Hearing Aid Technology
What’s Trending in 2023?
Hearing aids have come a long way since the first behind-the-ear models were developed in the 1960s and 1970s. In fact, you might remember what some of these devices looked like: big, bulky, beige, and very noticeable. They would sit uncomfortably behind the ear and amplify all the sounds around you. Now, fast forward to 2023 – hearing aids look more like something out of a James Bond movie than the big medical devices your grandparents used to wear.
Every year, manufacturers like Signia, Starkey and Bernafon introduce new products and technology upgrades that are on par with the latest smartphones. That being said, here are just a few groundbreaking hearing aid innovations to look out for in 2023.
Wireless Bluetooth Streaming
In a world of smartphones and portable electronic devices, it’s no surprise that many of today’s digital hearing aids are equipped with Bluetooth technology. Tech-savvy individuals love the convenience of being able to use their Bluetooth-enabled devices with their hearing aids. At the moment, there are several manufacturers that carry both in-the-ear (ITE) and behind-the-ear (BTE) models with Bluetooth connectivity. Some devices are made for iPhone®, iPad® and iPod touch®, allowing you to stream audio directly into your hearing aids. In most cases, this Bluetooth connection is wireless. However, some devices require the use of a streamer that is worn around the neck or placed in a pocket for hand-free use.
Smartphone Connectivity
Whether you’re at a local coffee shop, home goods store, or at a park, you can be sure to find people staring down at the glowing screen that is in their hands. Moreover, with new Apple iPhones and Android devices coming out year after year, there is no doubt that smartphones will eventually replace landline phones for good. Although you don’t need a smartphone to operate a hearing aid, it can definitely make it easier to adjust settings and change programs. In 2023, hearing aid manufacturers are focusing on developing products that are compatible with smartphones.
This comes with many benefits for the user, as it gives them more control over the way they hear in any environment. One major benefit of hearing aids with smartphone connectivity is the ability to adjust the volume, bass, and treble through an app. Older hearing aid models required either a visit to the specialist’s office for adjustments or fiddling around with the device itself. With the smartphone app, you can discreetly change settings and make adjustments on your own – without anyone noticing. Basically, the app serves as a remote control for your hearing aids.
START NO-RISK TRIALSmaller, Sleeker Designs
Most, if not all, brands carry hearing aids that are in the ear (ITE), completely in the canal (CIC), or invisible in the canal (IIC). They offer the most discretion and are virtually invisible when worn. However, these designs are not one-size-fits-all. There are several factors to consider before being fitted with one of these models, such as the size of your ear canal and your degree of hearing loss. Because of their ultra small size, the technology inside may not be enough to treat severe or profound cases of hearing loss. On the other hand, behind-the-ear (BTE) models are capable of fighting all types of hearing loss. Thankfully, you don’t have to sacrifice form for function, because behind-the-ear hearing aids are getting smaller and sleeker. One example is the Styletto Nx hearing aid from Signia.
Styletto Nx from Signia
Recently, Signia released a high-tech, slim, and stylish hearing aid called Styletto. Available in three different color combinations – Dark Granite and Silver, Cosmic Blue and Rose Gold, or Snow White and Rose Gold – Styletto breaks the mold of traditional BTE hearing aids. Styletto’s contemporary design makes it feel more like a fashion accessory rather than a medical device. It has a thin housing and speaker tube, making it incredibly discreet when worn. In addition to its cosmetics, Styletto delivers outstanding sound quality thanks to the new Signia Nx platform. And you never have to worry about replacing batteries, because Syletto offers portable rechargeability. Just one 3-hour charge gives you 19 hours of full-day use.
START NO-RISK TRIALThe Livio AI Hearing Aid from Starkey
The Livio AI is the first-ever BTE hearing aid to use artificial intelligence to provide superior sound quality and the ability to track your mental and physical health. This device is compatible with wireless devices, giving you direct access to your smartphone, remote microphone or TV streamer. Livio AI has even better noise management than its predecessors, as the devices can communicate with each other, which improves performance in background noise. Next, its smartphone app allows you to customize sound settings to low, mid, high, and ultra-high. A few more notable features you to need know about include:
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On-Board Sensors: Livio’s on-board sensors allow you to track brain and body activity. That way, you can monitor your overall health and reduce the risk of a variety of diseases.
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Translation: The smartphone app can actually translate speech from different languages. It will then send the translation to your hearing aids, which you can hear in whatever language you prefer.
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Fall detection: Because people with hearing loss tend to fall more, the Livio’s onboard sensors can track how many times you fall. This could potentially help you in the long run to be more conscious of any balance issues you may be experiencing due to hearing loss.
Stay Tuned for Even More Innovations!
From smaller designs to more advanced technology and features, there is no doubt that this is just the beginning for the hearing aid industry. If you would like to learn more about trying any of these hearing aids for 30 days, make sure to click on the button below. One of our hearing experts will get in touch with you for a free consultation. You will learn more about the benefits of wearing hearing aids and how we can help you find the right device for you. There are no obligations and no risks to speak with us. Sign up today!
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