The Significance of State-of-the-Art Technology and AI Features to Hearing Aids

Whether you’re a user of hearing aids or not, the latest technology and AI features being introduced into the industry are making a big difference.

Feedback management systems

Fortunately, modern-day hearing aids integrate artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning. This combination allows for better performance in challenging listening situations. AI has become so ubiquitous that some products have been referred to as “AI devices.” The essential function of a hearing aid is to maximize speech intelligibility. This is separate from the more mundane tasks like volume control and mute control. Most importantly, AI in machine learning and model-based algorithms can do just that. The most exciting AI gimmick is using a MEMS (Micro-Electro-Mechanical Systems) microphone. This technology allows for directional microphone performance that remains constant for life. With the latest wireless connectivity, it is possible to get a hands-free experience. While it isn’t the newest or most expensive device in the hearing aid family, the Starkey Livio hearing aids is the most advanced in their category, and it is the first hearing aid to include a health tracking feature. This allows users to know how well they are doing with their hearing. In addition, it will enable them to take action if they see signs of wear and tear.

Real-time automated translation

Hundreds of thousands of people with hearing loss rely on American Sign Language (ASL) to communicate. But this isn’t just any language. It has its own grammar rules and alphabet. Real-time automated translation from ASL to English in hearing aids is possible. New advancements in artificial intelligence have replaced the traditional transcription process. This technology uses pattern-matching software to recognize common speech patterns. The system can achieve an accuracy level of 85% within five seconds. It is based on deep learning. It uses brain data and artificial intelligence to understand what a word means. The system has the potential to translate 300 sign languages globally.

Adaptive symmetry

Adaptive symmetry is a feature of state-of-the-art hearing aids that automatically utilizes signal processing algorithms to switch between an omnidirectional mode and a directional one. These devices have two microphones, each located in a binaural pair, which work together to adapt the Directionality of the signals. In the past, directional microphones could only detect sounds coming from in front of the listener. With the advancement of digital hearing aids, directional microphones can now vary polar patterns based on the listener’s location. A modulation detector is a set of maxima and minima followers that allow for estimating the signal-to-noise ratio of a frequency channel. Different hearing aid manufacturers have different strategies for implementing this feature. Another critical aspect of the algorithm is the time constants. These tell the duration between changes in polar patterns. Some manufacturers use a pre-determined trigger level. Others only switch to the directional mode when the incoming signal exceeds a specific threshold. Typical signal detectors include a level detector, a spectral content analyzer, and a wind noise detector. A more advanced algorithm would have several sensors.

Data logging

Using artificial intelligence (AI) and data logging in hearing aids has been a giant leap forward in technology. AI is transforming hearing aids into comprehensive health monitoring tools. It also provides many innovative means of improving user experience.

Data logging is a feature in hearing aids that allow users to store information about their listening environment. This data is used to analyze and personalize the user’s experience. In addition to storing preferences for volume levels and programs, data logging can be used to counsel patients on their listening environments. The essential function of a hearing aid is to maximize speech intelligibility. To maximize speech intelligibility, hearing aids must be able to record acoustic information about the listening environment. This can help the audiologist understand the user’s difficulties and improve the fitting process. Hearing aid manufacturers collect data to analyze feature use and make general adjustments to hearing aid settings. In the mid-2000s, hearing aids began to include a data-logging function. This feature recorded short- and long-term data, including each program’s use hours. It was also possible to record the outside environment. Most audiologists reported using data logging in their first follow-up appointment. Some used it in subsequent meetings. Most found it useful for participant counseling. However, the quality of the data varies.  The study indicated that data logging provided an objective picture of the listening environment. This data could be used to fit better and rehabilitate the patient.

Remote accessories

Streaming TV sounds directly into your hearing aids may sound like a pipe dream, but it’s now possible. A television streamer is a device that can stream stereo audio to your hearing aids. It’s an accessory that’s especially useful for those who listen louder to TV in the background than the rest of the house. The best television streamer will let you adjust the audio signal’s volume and stream it through a separate microphone. These devices also allow you to answer or reject calls. Those who wear hearing aids can also stream music, calls, and other multimedia to their phones. Using a smartphone app, they can control the handset’s functions through their phone. One of the most exciting new technologies is the smartphone-enabled hearing aid. This feature enables you to listen to audio in noisy environments, such as in public places, without fumbling with your remote. A few manufacturers have launched apps that let you control your listening experience from the comfort of your smartphone. Some models even include Bluetooth technology. In addition, some models can connect to various other wireless products.