Over-the-Counter (OTC) Hearing Aid Advancements

Brief Description

This technology introduces innovative methods to significantly improve the performance and accessibility of OTC hearing aids for individuals with mild-to-moderate hearing loss.

Full Description

The technology encompasses the application of advanced hearing aid front-end processing, such as directional microphones and multi-channel noise reduction algorithms, to enhance OTC hearing aids. It also includes a novel fitting method that simplifies the adjustment process for users, ensuring that sounds are audible and comfortable. Furthermore, the integration of smartphones and True-Wireless-Stereo (TWS) devices, alongside artificial intelligence (AI), offers opportunities to further revolutionize hearing aid functionality and user experience.

Suggested uses

• Hearing aids for adults with perceived mild-to-moderate hearing loss. 
• Smartphone and True-Wireless-Stereo (TWS) earbud applications designed to function as personal hearing amplification devices. 
• Artificial intelligence (AI)-powered devices and applications to enhance speech recognition and noise cancellation in hearing aids. 
• Healthcare solutions aimed at preventing or delaying cognitive decline and dementia through early hearing loss intervention.

Advantages

• Improved speech intelligibility and sound quality for users with mild-to-moderate hearing loss. 
• Simplified fitting process which allows users to adjust hearing aids without professional audiograms. 
• Utilization of existing consumer electronics to enhance accessibility and affordability of hearing aids. 
• Incorporation of AI to solve complex auditory challenges.

Patent Status

Patent Pending

Related Materials

• Chung, K., Zeng, F.-G. (2024). Over-the-counter hearing aids: implementations and opportunities. Frontiers in Audiology and Otology, 2.