Hard-of-hearing individuals in the United States will soon be able to get their hands on Sony Electronics’ first over-the-counter (OTC) hearing aids.
The brand teased the release last month, saying it hoped to make buying a hearing device as convenient as picking up contact lenses.
Developed in partnership with WS Audiology (WSA), a pioneer in hearing aid technology over the last century, the new gadgets promise users “an unprecedented hearing experience.”
There’s no doubt they’ll enhance the lives of those hard of hearing with the combination of premium technology, ease of use, comfort, and wearability to help “bridge the gap” between one’s senses and the environment.
The CRE-C10 and CRE-E10 self-fitting OTC hearing aids will be the first two products debuting from the line, considering that there isn’t a one-size-fits-all solution for users’ unique requirements.
The first gadget—the CRE-C10 (US$999.99)—is sleek, discreet, “virtually invisible” when worn, and claims to be one of the smallest devices available on the market. It boasts a sizeable battery life of up to 70 hours of continuous use.
On the other hand, the CRE-E10 (US$1,299.99) is shaped similarly to an earbud, with excellent sound quality and comfort for convenient use. iOS users will be able to connect it to Bluetooth to stream audio or music and can charge it wirelessly when its 26 hours of playtime is up.
In addition, an accompanying application will allow the devices to adapt to an individual’s speech patterns and surroundings, allowing for an optimal level of comfort when assisting with their hearing needs.
By creating an over-the-counter gadget for everyday use, Sony wants to break down barriers hard-of-hearing individuals face, providing a simple solution that users can set up on their own to improve daily life.
The do-it-yourself hearing aids are so easy to use that the company says the guided setup process only takes minutes. The application even has a ‘self-fit’ option, where wearers can adjust the device to the most appropriate profile for their ears.
“As a leader in the audio innovation space, we are thrilled at the opportunity to improve the hearing assistance landscape with cutting-edge yet quite accessible devices that will ensure new over-the-counter solutions for those living with hearing impairment,” says Tyler Ishida, President of Consumer Business Group, Sony Electronics.
Head here for more information on the devices.
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