Starkey Launches AI-Powered Hearing Aid, Positioning Ear as next Frontier for Wearable Tech
MINNEAPOLIS, MN – Billion-dollar hearing aid manufacturer Starkey unveiled a new hearing aid boasting advanced artificial intelligence and extended functionality, aiming too make hearing technology accessible to all generations. The device, designed for all-day wear, features a discreet design and industry-leading 51-hour battery life.
The launch comes as tech giants like Apple enter the hearing enhancement space with products like AirPods Pro, which Apple has claimed can “act as a clinical-grade hearing aid” for mild-to-moderate hearing loss. Though, Starkey executives emphasize their product’s focus on seamless integration into daily life.
“The most effective technologies are those that just seamlessly integrate into a person’s life, that become a part of their day-to-day existence,” saeid Starkey representative Fabry.
Unlike AirPods, Starkey’s new hearing aid is engineered for up to 14 hours of daily use and prioritizes discretion. Beyond core hearing assistance,the device incorporates features like telehealth capabilities allowing remote adjustments by professionals,wax buildup detection,fall detection with alerts to loved ones,and waterproof construction.
Starkey highlighted endorsements from prominent figures, including Shark Tank star Daymond John, 56, a current user of the product, and Kevin O’Leary, 71, who reportedly “saw his eyes light up” upon experiencing the technology and utilizes it for productivity during filming downtime, listening to text messages thru the devices.
“We have to design, engineer, manufacture, and provide a product that is nearly invisible and is also designed for 14 hours a day,” explained Starkey representative Sawalich. “We have to design a product that people are comfortable wearing. It’s a lifestyle product, it’s a productivity product, it’s a connectivity product.”
The company’s move reflects a growing recognition of hearing loss,with Sawalich noting,”People need to understand that there is no more stigma around hearing aids and hearing technology.” Starkey positions the ear as “the new wrist,” signaling a shift towards more integrated and personalized wearable health technology.
