How Artificial Intelligence Is Increasing the Efficiency of Hearing Aids
Posted on: 28 June 2019
AI—artificial intelligence—has made its way into hearing aids. As important devices meant to help people with hearing complications, hearing aids have come a long way over the years. Now they can be fitted with tiny sensors that collect information, send and receive signals and even initiate a specific action.
By definition, AI is the use of pre-programmed/automated tools to collect and record data in real time. This data can then be used to program a machine in carrying out specific functions. The concept of AI is now being used by hearing aid manufacturers to make these devices more efficient. Hearing aids can collect important data that can be used to deliver a higher-quality listening experience.
This piece will explore the impact of AI on how hearing aids work.
Real-time data collection can monitor quality of sound
Perhaps the most important application of AI in hearing aids is the real-time collection of data. How does this work? A small chip can be placed inside the hearing aid to collect data regarding incoming sound, volume levels and frequencies. This data can then be analysed to determine the types of sounds you hear on a daily basis.
The data collected is important because improvements can be made in the hearing aid's ability to gather and process sounds in real time. In fact, your hearing aid can be specifically programmed to filter out certain frequencies while amplifying others.
Establish sound pre-sets adapted to your environment
The ability of AI to collect data (and to carry out automated functions) comes in handy in hearing aids. With AI, special chips can be installed in the device to enhance clarity and create a more natural hearing experience.
Due to automation, the chip can be programmed to adapt to your specific environment and to ensure that you remain aware of all the important sounds nearby. An AI chip can also activate certain pre-sets in order to automatically adapt to your hearing preferences (using data-backed decisions). In this way, the collected data can be used to improve the overall functionality of your hearing aid.
Monitor your health in real time
AI has also turned hearing aids into multi-functional devices. Rather than only processing sounds, hearing aids can also collect data regarding your body and brain functions. To be specific, the hearing aid can record your balance, directional movements, temperature and other vitals. This data can then be used to create a profile of your overall health and to monitor your current condition in real time.
Contact a doctor to learn more about the different types of hearing aids.
Share