What are AI Hearing Aids and How Do They Work?

Artificial Intelligence (AI) is revolutionising hearing aids around the world, making them smarter and easier to use than ever before.

 

  • AI hearing aids use intelligent algorithms to automatically distinguish speech from background noise and improve the clarity of conversations.
  • You can now get AI-powered hearing aids from leading manufacturers through New Zealand audiologists.
  • Speak with a qualified Bay Audiology specialist to learn more about AI hearing aids.

What are AI hearing aids?

AI hearing aids use artificial intelligence to create a more accurate and natural hearing experience. Unlike older analogue hearing aids, which amplify all sounds equally, AI hearing aids build on the capabilities of digital hearing aids. While digital hearing aids allow selective sound amplification, AI hearing aids go further by intelligently distinguishing between different types of sounds, like speech and background noise, and adapting their output in real time for enhanced clarity and comfort.

Central to this technology are machine-learning algorithms, which help the hearing aids ‘learn’ user preferences over time. Deep neural networks – highly complex systems inspired by the human brain – help identify and prioritise speech, music, ambient sounds and more. The result? Much clearer conversations and less interference from unwanted noise. AI hearing aids process environmental sounds in real-time, which means they automatically adjust settings to suit your location or activity without any manual input.

In New Zealand, you can purchase AI hearing aids from qualified audiologists like Bay Audiology. Leading manufacturers have integrated the smart functionality into modern devices that are not only discreet but also intuitive and powerful. Bay Audiology can provide you with this cutting-edge technology, and we’re helping Kiwis improve their quality of life with more responsive and intelligent hearing products.

Benefits of AI hearing aids

One of the biggest advantages of AI hearing aids is their superior speech clarity in noisy environments. Because these devices are trained on vast audio data, they can recognise speech patterns and cut down on distracting background sounds, whether you’re in a crowded café or at a rowdy family gathering.

AI hearing aids also greatly reduce listening effort. ‘Listening effort’ is the mental strain people with hearing loss tend to experience when trying to follow conversations, especially in challenging sound environments. AI hearing aids ease this burden by automatically filtering out and enhancing the sounds that matter, such as voices, while suppressing less-relevant noises. You’ll get to enjoy a more relaxed hearing experience with less fatigue at the end of the day.

Another standout feature is automatic environmental adaptation. AI devices continually analyse your environment, detecting changes like moving from indoors to outdoors, and adjust accordingly.

Some AI hearing aids go even further by incorporating motion sensors and connectivity features. They can track your physical activity or detect falls (in select models), and some pair with smartphones for direct audio streaming or integration with virtual assistants like Siri and Alexa.

All of these benefits add up to a more intuitive and comfortable hearing experience, helping you stay connected and confident in any situation.

How AI hearing aids work

AI hearing aids use a smart five-step process to help you hear more clearly and naturally:

Sound capture

Microphones built into the hearing aid capture sounds from various directions. Having a wide field of input means the device can collect detailed audio data from your environment.

Digital processing

The incoming sound is analysed using AI algorithms, which evaluate the quality, type and direction of the sound. This helps to determine the most important audio signals.

Sound classification

The hearing aid separates sounds into distinct categories (e.g. speech, music, wind, general noise) to enable the device to separate relevant sounds from distractions.

Real-time optimisation

Based on the classification, your device will make real-time adjustments. For example, it might boost speech while cutting down the background chatter or wind noise. It does this all without requiring input from you, the user.

Personalised output

Finally, the processed sound is delivered based on your hearing profile to give you optimal clarity and volume for your preferences.

AI hearing aids available in New Zealand

Bay Audiology offers a large selection of AI-powered hearing aids, including the new ampli-mini AI hearing aid – a discreet and intelligent solution that adapts in real time to your surrounding environment. All our AI-powered devices combine cutting-edge technology with comfortable and compact designs, making them perfect for daily wear.

All AI hearing aids at Bay Audiology include expert fitting, adjustments and after-care services. Our after-care program includes regular maintenance and repairs from our qualified audiologists.

Eligible clients may also receive financing support through ACC, which is helping to bring this incredible technology to more people. Find your nearest Bay Audiology clinic to learn more about AI hearing aids and whether they’re the right fit for you.

FAQs

Are AI hearing aids difficult to use?

Not at all. AI hearing aids are highly intuitive and user-friendly. They automatically adjust to different sound environments and only require minimal manual input. After an initial fitting and setup with your audiologist, the device learns from your preferences and operates quietly in the background so that you can get on with your day.

Do AI hearing aids cost more than traditional hearing aids?

While AI hearing aids cost a bit more upfront, most users find the benefits far outweigh the difference in price. Features like automatic environmental adjustments, fuller speech clarity and less listening fatigue can greatly improve your quality of life. If cost is a concern, Bay Audiology has financing options and funding support for those who are eligible.

Can I turn off the AI features?

AI features are built into the core processing of the hearing aid and are what make the device so powerful. But some hearing aids do have settings where users can switch between manual and automatic modes or adjust specific sound settings using their smartphone app. Your Bay Audiology clinician will walk you through how to personalise your device to best suit your needs. You can also take advantage of our after-care services to get help fine-tuning your device.

How do I know if AI hearing aids are right for me?

Our audiologists will evaluate your hearing profile and preferences to recommend the best device for your needs. AI hearing aids are great for people who spend time in varied environments or struggle with speech clarity in noisy settings. Use our store locator to find a clinic near you and book an appointment online.

Experience AI hearing aids at Bay Audiology

Ready to experience the latest in hearing technology? Visit Bay Audiology to try our range of AI-powered hearing aids and discover how they could change your life. Our team of experienced audiologists, working across 120+ clinics in New Zealand, will guide you through the process. Book an appointment today or find your nearest clinic to enjoy better hearing now and for years to come.Ready to experience the latest in hearing technology? Visit Bay Audiology to try our range of AI-powered hearing aids and discover how they could change your life. Our team of experienced audiologists, working across 120+ clinics in New Zealand, will guide you through the process. 

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