Usability features of hearing aids

Usability features of hearing devices are those that focus on automation and ease of use.

Environmental adaptation

These features analyse the environment you are in and adjust the hearing aid settings for you using:

  • sound

  • location tracking (GPS)

  • other information.

Manufacturers may use the following terms:

  • environmental classifiers

  • environmental adaptation

  • advanced sensors (accelerometer, GPS).

Ear-to-ear communication

These features allow 2 hearing aids to operate together as one complete system rather than 2 independent devices. You can:

  • coordinate control settings such as volume or programs
  • share information to help select microphone modes
  • adjust other features to improve sound quality, comfort or ease of use.

Manufacturers may use the following terms:

  • bilateral synchronisation
  • binaural coordination.

Rechargeability

This allows you to recharge your hearing aids like your mobile phone and means you don’t have to use small, non-rechargeable button batteries.

Manufacturers may use the term lithium battery.

Device control

These features allow you to activate your favourite settings and adjust the volume in certain listening situations or environments when you need to.

Manufacturers may use the following terms:

  • in-app control

  • programmable push-button or switch

  • tap control.

Artificial intelligence

This feature uses smart computing to mimic human intelligence and analyse information, learn, make decisions and perform tasks in hearing devices. These tasks are designed to maximise benefits to the wearer and enhance their experience.

Manufacturers may use the following terms:

  • artificial intelligence
  • machine learning
  • neural networks
  • deep learning.
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