The "smart" hearing aids showcased at the event can be discreetly controlled by both iPhone and Android devices, with the latest models clinically proven to outperform people with normal hearing in background noise, according to the company. When two hearing aids are worn (the most common case), Siemens' new smart hearing aids use intelligent, two-way wireless communication to zero in on desired speech, executives noted in a news release. This enables better-than-normal hearing in crowded situations like noisy restaurants and cocktail parties where background chatter historically has been a challenge.
"These are not your average hearing aids but rather highly-intelligent wearable devices," said Scott Davis, CEO of Siemens Hearing Instruments. "They automatically detect everyday listening environments such as a noisy room, wind, or while driving a car, and instinctively know what to do."
When paired with Siemens' new easyTek and easyTek™ App, a wearer can control the direction of the hearing aids' microphones—front, left, right, or behind—to simultaneously enhance speech and suppress background noise. The span of the microphones' focus also can be controlled via the app, allowing wearers to select a wide range of focus or a very narrow beam.
"Some hearing aid wearers also want the flexibility that comes with having control over their listening experience," added Davis. "We've all heard of and can appreciate the benefits of on-demand TV. With these hearing aids, you can turn your iPhone or Android device into a hearing aid control center. We call it on-demand hearing."
While Siemens' new smart hearing aids pair with virtually any iOS or Android mobile device for a custom-tailored listening experience, a smartphone is not required to make use of the new technology. The hearing aids continuously scan the acoustic environment and activate the most optimal settings for that particular listening situation. For example, if a wearer is at a noisy family gathering, the smart hearing aids hone in on speech coming from the front while softening speech and noise from other directions. Or, if a wearer is out walking the dog, they automatically adjust so he or she can enjoy the sounds of nature.
Because both hearing aids are in constant communication and processing sound simultaneously, this creates a high-definition surround sound listening experience, with no manual adjustments required.Based in Germany, Siemens AG develops medical imaging equipment such as computed tomography and magnetic resonance imaging systems, laboratory diagnostics, clinical IT, wind turbine technology, power transmission solutions and automation/software solutions for industry. The company employs roughly 362,000 people worldwide.