Artificial intelligence (AI) is everywhere in the last few years. It has crept its way into our cars, homes and even our hearing aids. But what does it mean? Is it actually beneficial for people with hearing loss or is it just the latest buzzword.

Hearing aids using AI technology provide dynamic, 360-degree sound processing and noise extraction, whereas traditional directional microphones are meant to amplify sounds coming from a specific direction (usually straight ahead). While hearing from 360 degrees is how normal hearing individuals function, with hearing loss this may not always be the option that provides best speech clarity in background noise.

An audiologist can assess the specific needs of each patient and offer a patient-centered approach to programming hearing aids to provide good speech understanding in a variety of environments.

How Directional Microphones Work in Hearing Aids

They use two or more physical microphones to compare sound arrival times, boosting sounds in front of the user while dampening sounds from the side or behind.

The wearer must physically face the person talking to them. If a voice comes from the side, back, or a complex multi-directional room, directional microphones struggle or block out important spatial sounds. A technology upgrade would need to happen in order to have directionality that accommodates speech in other directions (from the side and behind).

Traditional digital noise reduction with directional microphones makes background noise quieter (improving comfort), but it does not actively clean up or isolate speech signals.

How AI Works in Hearing Aids

Speech extraction: AI powered by Deep Neural Networks (DNNs) can analyze incoming soundscapes in real time and separate speech from background noise from any direction, not just the front. No head-turning required!

Automatic environmental adaptation: AI sound classifiers automatically adjust the hearing aid's behavior based on real-time context (such as driving, walking in wind, or sitting in a quiet room.

Personalized learning: AI can track user adjustments via smartphone apps over time, learning personal volume and clarity preferences for specific recurring environments.

Have You Heard The News?

Around 77% of electronic devices in daily use feature some form of built-in AI, though consumers often underestimate their active utilization of platforms.

Ready to Experience the Future of Hearing Tech?

Navigating the latest advancements in AI hearing aids can feel overwhelming, but you don't have to do it alone. At Audiology Associates, our expert team is here to help you find the personalized solution that fits your unique hearing needs and lifestyle.

Contact Audiology Associates today or call us to schedule a personalized consultation and learn how AI technology can improve your speech clarity and hearing comfort!