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Innovating in the AI field for 24 years*
Phonak develops hearing solutions that deliver real-world benefits for people with hearing loss. We are dedicated to advancing sound quality and speech understanding in our hearing aids through continuous technological innovation.
Since 2000, we have been taking hearing care to the next level with artificial intelligence (AI)-based machine learning in our hearing devices. Our latest innovation, Audéo Sphere Infinio delivers unprecedented speech and noise separation thanks to a cutting-edge deep neural network (DNN) designed by Phonak.1
As AI continues to advance, we are committed to developing hearing aid technology and applications that deliver exceptional benefits to both hearing care professionals and their clients.
What if?
What if we told you that the future of hearing care has already begun? With the breakthrough leaps in chip technology and AI we've made today, we dream up tomorrow. Our next-generation technology will bring everyone closer, instantly bringing clarity to conversation with a hearing experience that connects us to life, each other and the world.
Latest AI advancements transform hearing care
Traditionally, hearing aids have offered static settings, but machine learning has changed the game towards a more dynamic, personalized, and intentional listening experience. While the potential of AI in audiology is undeniable, audiologists might be understandably cautious and have questions as this technology evolves:
- What is the future of AI in hearing aids and hearing care?
- How can I learn more about AI-powered hearing aid options?
- Should I consider AI-enabled features when choosing hearing aids?
Addressing these questions will be critical in ensuring that AI is integrated responsibly and effectively into the field of audiology.
Harnessing the power of deep neural networks
Phonak is committed to address the No. 1 client need: speech understanding in noise.2 Speech understanding in noise is one of the most challenging listening situations for people with hearing loss and one of the most important predictors for hearing aid satisfaction.2
AutoSense OS 6.0 and the Spheric Speech Clarity feature
AutoSense OS 6.0 (ASOS) orchestrates Phonak SmartSpeech Technology. It controls how our hearing aids respond and adapt in the ever-changing listening environments that your clients find themselves in. ASOS is based on 24 years’ experience in AI and machine learning.*
Phonak Audéo Sphere™ Infinio also have Spheric Speech Clarity as part of the Spheric Speech in Loud Noise program (controlled by AutoSense OS 6.0).
It is the world’s first hearing aid with a dedicated artificial intelligence chip, DEEPSONIC™, which introduces a paradigm shift in hearing technology. The proprietary chip hosts a deep neural network (DNN) algorithm that significantly suppresses the background noise from any direction, leading to remarkable speech intelligibility improvements for individuals using hearing aids.1
Discover the science behind Infinio
From the lab to real-life - Infinio offers a range of new evidence-based features designed to enhance the listening experience for your client.
Videos
Interested in learning more about the future of hearing technology? With a commitment to pushing the boundaries of hearing technology, Phonak is developing next-generation hearing aid features that promise even more personalised and immersive listening experiences. Explore how we are shaping the future of hearing care:
Blog posts
AutoSense OS powered by AI
How does AutoSense OS use AI and machine learning to enhance our hearing aids, bringing us closer to replicating the natural hearing process? Nicole Klutz, AuD., explains how it works.
Leveraging machine learning and big data
Anne Thielen, PhD, shares three distinct ways in which we explore machine learning for predictive maintenance of hearing aids to ensure product quality and enhance the overall customer experience. Get the insights!
Dream big: Your hearing aids can handle it
Imagine providing your clients with instant, unprecedented speech clarity in the most challenging listening environments.
24 years in the making: Evolution of AI in Phonak hearing technology
Artificial intelligence is set to transform the hearing industry, from enhancing hearing aid functionalities to optimising workflow processes.
Artificial Intelligence FAQ
What is AI and how does it work in hearing aids? This FAQ section aims to address queries and provide information about AI-powered hearing solutions.
General AI and Hearing Aids
Frequently asked questions
Artificial intelligence is defined as the ability of machines to imitate human behavior. Conversationally, artificial intelligence and machine learning are used interchangeably.3
Machine learning is a subset of artificial intelligence in which a system learns automatically and enhances its performance through the analysis of provided data.3
Phonak hearing aids have utilized artificial intelligence technology for 24 years. For many years AI technology using Machine Learning (ML) has been utilized in hearing aids to perform 2 tasks: 1) classification of sound environments and 2) application of parameters for sound processing.
Phonak’s latest implementation is the use of machine learning to train our hearing aid operating system, AutoSense OS. This technology was developed and trained using thousands of real-world sound recordings. The result is a truly personalized hearing experience.
An advance subset of machine learning that employs intricate algorithms, such as deep neural networks (DNN), to closely emulate the human brain, enabling the system to learn and respond to information with increased complexity and precision.3
Deep Learning through a deep neural network is the most powerful machine learning algorithm.3
Phonak recognizes AI as a significant catalyst for innovation in certain aspects of hearing aid technology. However, AI/Deep learning is not new, it has been around since the 1990s, but has been limited due to the incredible amounts of processing power required to operate.
While embracing the excitement surrounding AI technology, Phonak remains steadfast in the belief that transparency is key. It is essential to openly acknowledge the current limitations of AI and avoid making exaggerated claims packed with buzzwords simply for the sake of trendiness.
We also acknowledge the importance of other technological advancements in meeting the needs of healthcare professionals and their patients. We aim to enhance their hearing experience in real-life situations, particularly in challenging environments with background noise.
In the realm of hearing aids, Phonak believes that the integration of Artificial Intelligence (AI) and its subsets, such as machine learning (ML) and deep neural networks (DNN), holds immense potential. When understanding the impact of AI and DNN, it is important to note that the size matters. A ‘small DNN’ will not necessarily achieve better patient outcomes than classical machine learning.
Our objective is to provide practical and effective solutions that truly benefit our users, regardless of the technology used.
At Phonak, we recognize the vital role of hearing care professionals in achieving the best patient outcomes. While AI technology continues to evolve, it is important to underscore the significance of the combined efforts of innovation and skilled hearing care professionals. The integration of advanced technology with expert care and guidance ensures the optimal utilization of AI capabilities in hearing aids, ultimately benefiting the patient.
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References
*As of January 2024
1. Raufer, S., Kohlhauer, P., Jehle, F., Kühnel, V., Preuss, M., Hobi, S. (2024). Spheric Speech Clarity proven to outperform three key competitors for clear speech in noise. Phonak Field Study News retrieved from https://www.phonak.com/evidence
2. Knorr, H (2022) Market Research ID # 4535 Please contact marketinsight@phonak.com if you are interested in further information
3. https://nix-united.com/blog/artificial-intelligence-vs-machine-learning-vs-deep-learning-explaining-the-difference/
