Are Hearing Aids Learning From Us?

Machine Learning

Given the title, it seems our hearing aids might possess some form of artificial intelligence, capable of understanding our thoughts – is that possible? Indeed, it is. While machine learning and artificial intelligence are related, they are not identical. Artificial intelligence includes machine learning. It’s a concept where computers exhibit intelligence and carry out tasks that are characteristic of human intelligence. Conversely, machine learning involves training computers to recognize patterns in data and algorithms, and then to make decisions based on this information. For the technology behind hearing aids, machine learning is crucial for the integration of artificial intelligence, and there are various applications of machine learning in the hearing aids available today.

The purpose of machine learning in hearing aids is to enhance hearing in noisy settings by learning from the individual’s habits and preferences in specific listening scenarios. This approach should result in improved sound quality and greater comfort while listening. The ultimate aim of a hearing aid with machine learning is to intuitively understand the individual’s desired sound and adjust the settings of the hearing aid accordingly to meet their ‘auditory intention’.

Currently, hearing aids that incorporate machine learning are available on the market. These ‘smart’ hearing aids feature wireless connectivity, telehealth applications, and the ability to connect to smartphones. Devices such as the Widex EVOKE, ReSound LiNX Quattro, and Starkey Livio AI hearing aids will learn the preferences of the wearer and then adjust the settings of the device based on the insights gained from the algorithms used in machine learning. Essentially, the hearing aid is determining what works best for the individual and then adjusting the settings to provide the optimal listening experience in various environments.

Additional functionalities of these smart hearing aids encompass telehealth integration and the ability to serve as a health monitoring tool. By utilising the right telehealth application, you can remotely connect with your Audiologist, allowing them to make real-time adjustments to your hearing aid. As a ‘health able’ tool, your hearing aid can track your essential health indicators and compare them to established health norms, providing you with crucial insights into your health condition and potentially alerting your family members in case of an issue.

Individuals who use hearing aids equipped with machine learning technology have noted an enhancement in their ability to hear in challenging listening environments. These devices not only become more intelligent with increased usage but also benefit from the data they collect from you and from a pool of anonymous users, thereby enhancing their knowledge and machine learning capabilities for future models.

Machine learning represents the future’s direction. It’s already in place and promises to improve your hearing and, potentially, your overall quality of life.