Summary: GN announced the release of ReSound Smart Fit 2.0 fitting software, a new Auracast-enabled remote microphone, and updated hearing aid styles for the ReSound Nexia portfolio.

Takeaways:

  1. Advanced Hearing Aid Styles: GN is expanding the ReSound Nexia portfolio with the launch of a wireless non-rechargeable ITC hearing aid and a wireless rechargeable CROS BTE style, providing advanced solutions for various hearing needs, including single-sided deafness.
  2. Auracast-Enabled Remote Microphone: The new Multi-Mic+ remote microphone, the first of its kind with Auracast technology, improves hearing in noisy environments by significantly boosting the signal-to-noise ratio, supporting Telecoil, FM systems, and direct audio input.
  3. Improved Fitting Software: The updated ReSound Smart Fit 2.0 software offers faster workflows, reduced clicks, and a streamlined interface, enhancing both the fitting experience for hearing care professionals and satisfaction for hearing aid users.

GN announced the release of updated hearing aid fitting software, ReSound Smart Fit 2.0, a new remote microphone with Auracast for Resound Nexia hearing aids, and the launch of new hearing aid styles.

Updating the ReSound Nexia Portfolio

Complementing the existing ReSound Nexia portfolio, GN is launching its smallest in-the-canal (ITC) hearing aid in a wireless non-rechargeable design and a new wireless rechargeable CROS behind-the-ear (BTE) solution, to support different hearing needs and preferences; another solution in treating single-sided deafness in addition to the already successful wireless CROS RIE launched in 2023. The new Auracast enabled styles give even more people with hearing loss access to GN’s most advanced technology, better equipping them for the new standard of Bluetooth connectivity.

New Remote Microphone with Auracast

In addition, GN is now offering the world’s first remote microphone with Auracast. As well as supporting Telecoil, FM systems, and DAI/direct audio input, the new Multi-Mic+ is designed to support users in challenging listening environments, including distances and noisy acoustics. The technology in the new Multi-Mic+ boosts signal-to-noise ratio (SNR) by at least 10.6 dB compared to adaptive directionality for better hearing in noisy environments. (1)

“We are continuously striving to cater to the needs of hearing aid users worldwide,” says Scott Davis, hearing division president at GN. “I’m delighted that more people can now benefit from ReSound Nexia’s best-in-class hearing in noise technology and experience the ‘next era’ of hearing and connectivity. With the introduction of these new technologies, people with hearing loss can strengthen their connections to people and the world around them and hear the sounds that matter.”

Further reading: Beltone Unveils Auracast-Enabled Portable Mic for Serene Hearing Aid

Updated ReSound Smart Fit Tech

Hearing care professionals consistently rank fitting software as the most critical tool for achieving hearing aid user satisfaction. In fact, up to 55% of a hearing aid fitting consultation is spent in the software which can be complex to navigate, slow to load, and requiring many clicks. (2) The new ReSound Smart Fit 2.0 delivers a 33-second improvement in clickthrough speed and a 62% click reduction when selecting preferences and settings.(3) The faster workflows and significantly improved home screen allow for a smoother, smarter, and more personalized fitting experience.

“Over the years, we have been improving our fitting software, so it performs consistently to the needs of hearing care professionals around the world,” says Laurel Christensen, chief audiology officer in GN’s Hearing division. “ReSound Smart Fit 2.0 addresses some of the key challenges faced by hearing care professionals. By simplifying and speeding up the fitting experience, we are enhancing both the professional and the user experience, leading to greater satisfaction.”

The ReSound Smart Fit 2.0 fitting software and new ReSound Nexia styles, along with the equivalent Beltone Solus Max software and Beltone Serene models, will be available in U.S. on Aug. 22, 2024.

References:

  1. Jespersen et al. (2024)
  2. FSW insights 2024 (data based on unique machine id)
  3. Compared to ReSound Smart Fit 1

Featured image: ReSound Nexia in-the-canal (ITC) hearing aid. Photo: PRNewsfoto/GN Hearing (US))