The Latest Features Available in Hearing Aids

Modern hearing aids are more advanced than ever. They are no longer just amplifiers. The features available in hearing aids today bring clarity, comfort, and control. Whether you’re new to hearing aids or upgrading, understanding these features will help you make the best decision.

Manufacturers like Phonak, ReSound, Starkey, and Signia are leading the way. Each brand offers something unique, but the trend is clear: smarter, more connected, more user-friendly hearing solutions.

Let’s explore the latest innovations and what they mean for your everyday life.

Artificial Intelligence: Smart Hearing That Adapts to You

Artificial Intelligence (AI) is revolutionizing hearing technology. These intelligent systems process sound like a human brain. They learn your preferences and adjust in real time.

Deep Neural Networks (DNNs): The Brain Behind the Hearing Aid

DNNs use machine learning to recognize speech and reduce noise. These networks are trained on millions of real-world sounds. They separate conversations from background chatter.

Phonak’s DEEPSONIC™ chip powers the Sphere Infinio. It performs 7.7 billion calculations per second. This allows it to distinguish voices even in the noisiest places. You get clearer speech without losing awareness of your surroundings.

ReSound Vivia also uses a dedicated DNN AI chip. It enhances speech in quiet and loud environments. This helps reduce listening fatigue and improves understanding.

AI Learns Your Listening Habits

Hearing aids with AI remember your preferences. If you lower volume at restaurants, it learns and adjusts automatically next time. This gives you a personalized experience.

Real-Time Sound Optimization

AI scans the environment hundreds of times per second. It adjusts your hearing aid settings without your input. This means you hear your best in every situation.

People walk and talk on a windy day.

Clearer Conversations in Noise

One of the biggest challenges with hearing loss is understanding speech in loud places. Today’s hearing aids use advanced tools to make speech stand out.

Directional Microphones

Multiple microphones work together to locate sounds. They focus on voices and filter out background noise. This helps you follow conversations in busy rooms.

Phonak’s StereoZoom 2.0 enhances speech from the front while reducing side and rear noise.

Starkey’s Edge Mode+ analyzes your environment and updates sound settings instantly.

Signia’s Real-Time Conversation Enhancement tracks multiple moving speakers. It adjusts to changing positions and volumes.

Spatial Hearing and Localization

Advanced hearing aids process input from both ears. This gives you a better sense of direction. You can tell where a voice is coming from. That improves your ability to interact in groups.

Seamless Streaming and Smart Connectivity

Bluetooth has changed the way hearing aids work with other devices. New models offer seamless streaming and universal compatibility.

Bluetooth LE Audio

Bluetooth LE Audio improves sound quality and battery life. It supports multi-streaming. You can connect your hearing aids to more than one device at once.

Auracast: The Next Step in Public Audio

Auracast will allow hearing aids to stream audio from public sound systems. Imagine hearing airport announcements or theater audio directly in your hearing aids. No extra accessories required.

ReSound, Phonak, and Signia models are already Auracast-ready.

Two-Way Audio and Hands-Free Calling

Modern hearing aids double as headsets. You can talk on the phone hands-free. Your voice streams through the hearing aid’s microphone directly to your phone.

Streaming From All Your Devices

Enjoy audio directly from:

  • Smartphones (iOS and Android)
  • Smart TVs
  • Tablets and computers
  • Music and podcast apps

No dongles or adapters needed.

Reliable Rechargeability for All-Day Use

Rechargeable hearing aids are now standard. They are easier to use and better for the environment.

Long-Lasting Lithium-Ion Batteries

These batteries last all day and recharge quickly. For example, Starkey Genesis AI provides up to 51 hours on a full charge.

A quick 15-minute charge can give hours of power. You never need to worry about running out of batteries during the day.

Learn all about Starkey hearing aid models. 

Modern Charging Cases

Most charging cases include:

  • Magnetic connectors for easy handling
  • LED indicators to show battery status
  • Portable backup batteries

You can charge your hearing aids on the go, anywhere you are.

Relief From Tinnitus

Many people with hearing loss also experience tinnitus. Modern hearing aids help manage it.

Built-In Sound Therapy

Your hearing aids can produce soothing sounds like white noise or ocean waves. These sounds mask the ringing in your ears.

App Support for Tinnitus

Most brands include tinnitus tools in their apps. You can:

  • Adjust sound therapy settings
  • Try guided relaxation exercises
  • Create your own soothing sound profiles

Tinnitus relief is now just a tap away.

Discover other ways to address tinnitus. 

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Health and Wellness Features

Hearing aids are also becoming health monitors. They help you stay active and safe.

Step and Activity Tracking

Motion sensors track your steps and general movement. This helps you stay on top of your fitness goals.

Fall Detection and Alerts

Starkey Genesis AI includes fall detection. If you fall, your hearing aids can alert a chosen contact. This feature adds safety and peace of mind.

Social Engagement Metrics

Apps like Signia My WellBeing track how much time you spend engaged in conversation. Staying socially active supports cognitive health.

Built for Real Life: Durable and Waterproof

Today’s hearing aids are built tough. They can handle daily life with ease.

Water and Dust Protection

Most models have IP68 ratings. That means they’re protected from dust and can handle sweat, rain, and even short water exposure.

You can wear them in all conditions, without worry.

Shock and Impact Resistance

Modern casings protect internal components from drops, oils, lotions, and hairspray. These hearing aids are made to last.

Full Control From Your Smartphone

Every major hearing aid brand now offers a smartphone app. These apps give you full control over your experience.

App Features Include:

  • Adjusting volume and tone
  • Changing listening programs
  • Directing microphones
  • Locating lost devices
  • Checking battery life
  • Chatting with your hearing care provider

Apps include myPhonak, My Starkey, ReSound Smart 3D, and Signia App.

What Sets Each Brand Apart?

Every brand has something special to offer.

Phonak

  • DEEPSONIC AI chip: Speech separation like never before
  • SpeechSensor: Captures voices from all directions
  • RogerDirect: Works with wireless microphones
  • Tap Controls: Take calls with a simple tap

ReSound

  • Dual Chips in Vivia: Two processors for enhanced sound
  • M&RIE: Adds a mic inside the ear canal
  • Intelligent Focus: Follows the direction you’re facing
  • 360 All Around Sound: Natural listening from every angle

Starkey

  • Neuro Sound Technology 2.0: Mimics your brain’s hearing process
  • Translate & Transcribe: Converts speech to text or other languages
  • Edge Mode+: Updates settings automatically
  • Fall detection: Sends alerts if you fall

Signia

  • Real-Time Conversation Enhancement: Tracks moving talkers
  • Own Voice Processing: Your voice sounds natural
  • Signia Assistant: AI tool that learns your preferences
  • My WellBeing App: Tracks activity and social time

Find out about the top hearing aids for sale. 

Why Your Provider Is Still the Key to Success

Technology only goes so far without expert guidance. That’s where Stanford Hearing comes in.

Professional Testing and Evaluation

We perform complete hearing exams to diagnose your hearing loss. This helps us match you with the best device for your needs.

Custom Programming and Real Ear Measurements

We use real ear measurements to ensure your hearing aid delivers sound accurately. Our adjustments are tailored to your hearing profile and lifestyle.

Discover how to get a free hearing test in Sioux Falls. 

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Ready to Try These Features for Yourself?

Today’s hearing aids offer more than better sound. They support your health, safety, and connection with the world.

Let ua help you explore the latest features available in hearing aids. Contact Stanford Hearing today to schedule your appointment and experience the difference.