Starkey - Pushing the edge of possibility.
Science & Technology
Introduction
In 2018, Starkey launched a groundbreaking hearing aid that set a new standard in audiology with the introduction of AI technology and embedded sensors. Fast forward to 2023, Starkey has once again transformed the industry by unveiling their latest innovation – the G2 neural processor equipped with artificial intelligence. This significant advancement marks a new era for hearing instruments, demonstrating Starkey’s commitment to being at the forefront of technology.
Today, during a live event, the Starkey team showcased their new flagship technology, Edge AI, an impressive result of over seven years of dedicated research and development with a team of 500 engineers. This platform is designed to cater to a wide range of hearing patients, providing them with enhanced sound quality, connectivity, and functionalities that exceed traditional hearing aids.
The Edge AI system features the industry's first fully embedded deep neural network (DNN) on the audio processing chip. This means that different sound signals are processed more quickly, without compromising battery life or introducing latency. With these improvements, patients can experience up to 30% more accuracy in speech identification across complex listening environments and a remarkable 13 decibels (dB) increase in signal-to-noise ratio.
Another significant innovation presented was the universal connectivity feature, allowing seamless pairing with other devices and a battery life of up to 51 hours on rechargeable options. The Edge AI hearing aids are now available in seven styles, including custom fitting options, making them suitable for diverse patient needs and preferences.
The Starkey team emphasized that the future of hearing aids lies in deep neural networks, which mimics human brain functions when processing sound. Edge AI actively scans the listening environment, considers patient movement, and intelligently processes audio in real-time for more effective sound clarity going beyond mere amplification.
Furthermore, the event highlighted new advancements in wireless technology, introducing the latest generation of Bluetooth called LE Audio, which enhances sound quality, has better stability for streaming, and connects to multiple devices simultaneously.
The new technology also supports an array of applications, including improvements in app usability, allowing users not only to adjust hearing aids via their smartphones but also connecting with Apple Watches. The Edge family now features groundbreaking developments, ensuring that patients experience sound clarity without the previous discomfort of wearing hearing aids.
Starkey has also introduced the Venture Business Toolkit, helping clinics increase patient bases and optimize operational efficiency. This includes a new commercial booster program, an innovative CRM platform, and the Open Day 2.0 initiative to enhance patient engagement during open days.
Brian, one of the featured patients during the event, shared how the new hearing aids improved his experience in various environments, allowing him to appreciate music again and participate meaningfully in conversations.
In conclusion, Starkey's latest developments reflect a combination of cutting-edge technology and patient-centered design, setting a new industry standard, and demonstrating that Starkey is not just leading the market; it is shaping the future of hearing solutions.
Keywords
- Starkey
- Hearing aids
- Edge AI
- G2 neural processor
- Artificial intelligence
- Deep neural network (DNN)
- Speech identification
- Signal-to-noise ratio
- Universal connectivity
- Bluetooth LE Audio
- Patient experience
FAQ
Q1: What is the major innovation introduced by Starkey in 2023?
A1: Starkey unveiled the G2 neural processor, featuring artificial intelligence and a fully embedded deep neural network to enhance sound quality and processing speed in hearing aids.
Q2: How much improvement can patients expect in speech identification with the new technology?
A2: The new Edge AI technology allows for up to 30% more accuracy in identifying speech compared to conventional hearing aids.
Q3: What is the signal-to-noise ratio improvement with Edge AI hearing aids?
A3: Edge AI hearing aids provide an impressive 13 dB improvement in the signal-to-noise ratio, particularly in noisy environments.
Q4: What connectivity options do the new hearing aids support?
A4: The new Edge AI hearing aids feature universal connectivity, allowing them to connect wirelessly to multiple devices, including smartphones and other audio sources.
Q5: How long is the battery life of the Edge AI hearing aids?
A5: The rechargeable Edge AI hearing aids offer a battery life of up to 51 hours on a single charge.