Exciting Hearing Technology in 2020
The Consumer Electronics Show (CES) is one of the largest trade fairs for technology that takes place every year. The exhibition is held at the Las Vegas Convention Center in Las Vegas and draws about 200,000 participants. In the past, hearing aids that debuted at CES have gone on to receive acclaim. In 2019, for example, Widex released the brand-new EVOKE and ReSound introduced the LiNX Quattro – both of which can be found at discount prices through FitHearing.
This year’s event was filled with new hearing aid technology to make their mark in 2020. Undoubtedly, Phonak’s announcement of the Virto Black was one of the biggest stories. Phonak’s new Virto Black introduces new technology and an innovative design that is exciting for the future of hearing aids. At FitHearing Audiology Network, we are proud to provide Phonak hearing aids at discount prices. Here, we take a look at Phonak’s latest technology in 2020.
Phonak Virto Black
Phonak took advantage of the event to unveil the Phonak Virto Black, a fully-connected in-the-ear hearing aid (ITE), which blends revolutionary Marvel hearing technology with the style of a classic hearable. The Virto Black is Phonak’s first custom hearing aid with the benefits of Marvel technology, including universal Bluetooth, listening, hands-free phone calls, and a customized hearing experience through the my Phonak app. In other words, it is the first hearing aid to stream directly from both Android and iOS – and any other device equipped with Bluetooth – making it a truly accessible device.
What does it sound like in action? James Trew, a writer at Engadget, wore the Virto Black at the CES 2020 show, and here’s what he had to say: “As I walked through different environments (that noisy casino, a relatively calm taxi and then a trade show floor), I could sense the Virto Black adapting to my surroundings. Conversations were easy in all of these scenarios, with little to no annoying, sharp background noises. The companion app is comprehensive, allowing you to adjust settings per ear or universally. You can create your own presets and save them for later.”
Customized Fit with 3D Printing
In addition to customized pre-sets, Virto Black uses 3D printing technology to create a customized fit, resulting in comfort for all-day wear. Virto Black’s customized design, created to fit each individual, means that it is a leg up on your run-of-the-mill hearables. Furthermore, Phonak utilizes an extraordinary method of making sure that the electronic components of the hearing aid are fit properly as well. Phonak uses their “Biometric Calibration, which analyzes 1,600 unique data points from a person’s ear impressions to optimize directional microphone placement and ensure an exact fit.”
Transform Your Phone Call to Text
One spectacular breakthrough that harnesses the strength of mobile communication in 2020 is the myCall-to-text app from Phonak. Phonak has come up with a fantastic solution that allows you to hear what your conversation partner is saying on the phone, in real-time. The app types out what the other person says during a call, so you can read what you’re saying on your cell phone. With the Virto Black, wearers can accept, reject, or end calls simply by pushing a button on their devices. Streaming calls directly to the Virto Black ensures a safe, hands-free experience while on the road – without having to fumble through your bag for your cell phone.
How Your Lifestyle Can Benefit from New Hearing Aid Technology
When researching and developing the next big thing, major brands, such as Phonak, listen to consumers and take into account what they need from their devices in every day life. As other electronic devices – smart TVs, laptops, smartphones, tablets, etc. – grow increasingly more sophisticated, it only makes sense for hearing aids to follow suit.
Hearing is an incredibly important sense and taking the steps to address hearing loss means that you don’t have to miss a thing. Phonak’s intention with the Virto Black is to create a device that fits seamlessly – and stylishly – into our lives. With remarkable innovations from manufacturers like Phonak, why not take advantage of this exciting moment in hearing aid technology?
If you are in the market for discount hearing aids with innovative technology, contact us at FitHearing Audiology Network to learn more.
