Starkey Edge AI Hearing Aids Now Available in Phoenix

Hearing aid technology has evolved significantly in the past ten years. What began as basic sound amplification devices has developed into advanced processors that automatically adjust to different listening situations. New developments in computer chips, AI processing, and research into auditory brain function have led to major improvements in hearing aid capabilities. The top hearing aid manufacturers now produce devices that both handle sound processing and include features for better daily living.

The integration of artificial intelligence and neural networks into hearing aids marks a significant shift in hearing treatment. These systems can now analyze complex sound environments and make adjustments in real-time, similar to how the human brain processes sound. This allows for more precise speech enhancement and background noise reduction, helping hearing aid wearers better understand conversations in challenging listening situations.

The latest innovation from Starkey, the Edge AI hearing aid, brings advanced sound processing capabilities and smart features to hearing aid wearers in Phoenix. With its new G2 Neuro Processor and neural processing unit (NPU), Edge AI represents significant advancements in hearing technology, offering improved speech understanding and noise reduction.

Understanding Edge AI Technology

The G2 Neuro Processor in Edge AI processes sound similar to how your brain naturally hears. This system works through three distinct pathways that work together to improve your hearing experience. The first pathway, called sensory processing, creates a detailed map of sounds in your environment. The second pathway works in the background through Sound Manager, automatically handling routine sound processing without requiring your attention. The third pathway gives you direct control over your hearing preferences through easy adjustments.

The Neuro Sound Technology 2.0 in Edge AI builds on previous Starkey innovations with new capabilities for speech enhancement and noise reduction. When you're in a noisy setting like a restaurant, the system rapidly identifies speech while reducing unwanted background sounds. This happens automatically, though you can make adjustments if needed.

The technical improvements in Edge AI translate into practical benefits for daily use:

• Battery life lasting up to 51 hours on a single charge, including time spent streaming audio
• Speech recognition that's 30% more accurate than previous models
• A 6dB improvement in reducing soft background noises that can be distracting
• Waterproof protection in rechargeable models that protects against moisture up to 1 meter deep
• Cleaner sound processing that reduces listening fatigue
• Processing speed that keeps up with sudden changes in your sound environment

These features work together to help you hear clearly throughout your day, whether you're having a quiet conversation at home or attending a busy social gathering.

Smart Features and Modern Connectivity

Edge AI uses the latest Bluetooth Low Energy Audio technology, which makes connecting to your devices simpler and more reliable. This updated system uses less battery power while streaming high-quality audio from your phone or other devices. The hearing aids support Auracast, a new audio broadcast system that will allow you to receive direct audio in public spaces like theaters and airports.

The My Starkey app puts control of your hearing aids on your smartphone or Apple Watch. You can adjust volume levels and switch between listening programs based on your environment. If you need adjustments to your hearing aid settings, we can make programming changes remotely through TeleHear sessions, saving you a trip to our office. The app also includes features beyond hearing management - you can track your physical activity, monitor your cognitive engagement through social interactions, and even perform balance assessments.

Edge AI Hearing Aid Styles

The Edge AI comes in several styles to fit different hearing needs and preferences:

Behind-the-Ear Options:

• RIC RT: A versatile receiver-in-canal model
• mRIC R: A miniature rechargeable receiver-in-canal option
• RIC 312: A battery-powered receiver-in-canal style

Custom In-the-Ear Options:

• ITE R: A full in-the-ear rechargeable model
• ITC/HS R: A smaller in-the-canal or half-shell rechargeable option
• CIC: A nearly invisible completely-in-canal style

We help determine which style best suits your hearing loss, lifestyle, and preferences during your consultation. Each style maintains the full processing capabilities of Edge AI while offering different features and battery options.

Understanding Speech in Background Noise

Many people with hearing loss find noisy places challenging. The Edge AI addresses this with its AI sound processing system. The technology learns to separate speech from background noise by analyzing different types of sounds. When you're in a restaurant or busy family gathering, the hearing aids work to keep speech clear while reducing distracting background sounds.

The Edge Mode+ feature gives you extra help in difficult listening situations. When unexpected noise makes hearing difficult, you can activate Edge Mode+ through the My Starkey app. This helps you focus on conversations even in challenging environments like crowded restaurants or social events.

Supporting Your Health and Hearing

Edge AI goes beyond basic hearing improvement. The My Starkey app tracks several aspects of your health:

• Daily steps and movement
• Time spent in conversations and social activities
• Balance status through self-guided assessments
• Fall detection with optional alerts to family members

What Edge AI Users Say

People using Edge AI report positive experiences in various situations. A music venue owner uses his phone to adjust settings quickly as sound levels change. An aerospace engineer who kayaks regularly appreciates how the technology handles different environments. A grandfather shares that he can now understand his young granddaughter's speech clearly. These experiences show how Edge AI adapts to different lifestyles and hearing needs.

Best Practice Fitting at Applied Hearing Solutions

At Applied Hearing Solutions, we ensure optimal performance of your Edge AI hearing aids through Real Ear Measurement (REM). This verification method confirms that your hearing aids are programmed precisely to your hearing loss prescription, leading to better outcomes and increased satisfaction with your hearing aids.

Schedule Your Edge AI Consultation

If you're interested in experiencing the benefits of Starkey Edge AI hearing aids, our team of audiologists is ready to help. We'll evaluate your hearing needs, demonstrate the technology, and create a customized solution for your lifestyle. Contact us at 602-877-0000 to schedule your consultation at our Phoenix office.