Summary: Phonak’s Roger On, a remote microphone designed for hearing aid wearers and cochlear implant recipients, has been awarded a Bronze in the 2024 Edison Awards under the Assistive Technologies category.  Takeaways: Roger On offers advanced functionality, such as automatic speech direction detection and setting adjustments, to improve speech intelligibility in noisy settings and over distances. The device has garnered multiple accolades, including the Edison Awards, reflecting its impact on making everyday communication accessible for people with hearing impairments, according to th ..read more

Summary: Cochlear Limited gained FDA approval to lower the age requirement for their Cochlear Osia System from 12 to 5 years old, extending its availability to children with conductive hearing loss, mixed hearing loss, and single-sided sensorineural deafness.  Takeaways: The Osia System utilizes digital piezoelectric stimulation to transmit sound vibrations directly to the inner ear, providing high power and clarity, particularly in high-frequency sounds crucial for communication. The Osia System offers improved high-frequency hearing, as evidenced by testimonials from recipients and hea ..read more

Summary: At the AAA 2024+HearTECH Expo, research led by Barbara Weinstein, PhD, highlighted the positive impact of the InnoCaption captioning app on the quality of life for individuals with hearing loss.  Takeaways: The research indicated a notable increase in smartphone usage among respondents following the adoption of InnoCaption, suggesting individuals with hearing loss utilized their smartphones more frequently for communication. New findings also underscore the efficacy of captioning technology in alleviating the cognitive strain associated with auditory communication for individual ..read more

Summary: A new study delved into the structural and functional intricacies of the GPR156 receptor protein, shedding light on its role in auditory and balance functions. Researchers uncovered the mechanisms behind GPR156’s sustained activity and its potential implications for congenital hearing impairments. Takeaways: The new study provides novel insights into the GPR156 receptor protein. Understanding its structural dynamics and activation mechanisms is pivotal for addressing congenital hearing impairments. By utilizing cryo-EM analysis, the researchers achieved unprecedented resolution in st ..read more

Summary: HearUSA launched the Jill Botkin Hearing Healthcare Accessibility Scholarship in collaboration with the American Academy of Audiology (AAA), which aims to support future audiologists committed to improving access to hearing care services, particularly in underserved areas. Takeaways: The scholarship initiative reflects a commitment to addressing the ongoing issue of limited access to hearing care services, especially in geographically underserved regions The scholarship will provide a $5,000 grant to a full-time audiology student who has completed the first year of their Doctor of Au ..read more

Summary: WS Audiology (WSA) has announced the appointment of Jan Makela as its next president and CEO, who joins WSA from GE HealthCare, brings 17 years of experience in the medical device and life sciences industries. Takeaways: The appointment of Jan Makela as President and CEO marks a strategic leadership transition for WSA, following an intentional succession process. Makela brings extensive experience from his tenure at GE HealthCare, where he led a business with revenues of approximately $10 billion and over 10,000 employees.  Eric Bernard will support Makela in his transition to t ..read more

Starkey is proud to support the American Academy of Audiology by serving as a gold sponsor of the AAA 2024+HearTECH Expo in Atlanta, GA, where attendees will have the opportunity to experience Starkey’s Genesis AI and Signature Series technology. Educational Sessions from Starkey Attendees will also be able to learn in person from Starkey experts through multiple HearTECH Hub Talks, Industry Update sessions, and much more. “As we continue to prioritize the patient experience and the opportunities ahead for our industry, it’s never been a more important time to invest in the future of hearing h ..read more

To effectively attract new patients, hearing care professionals need to employ both old and new marketing practices. By Amit Gosalia, AuD In today’s dynamic hearing healthcare landscape, hearing care professionals (HCPs) face a multitude of challenges when it comes to marketing themselves and their services effectively. With technological advancements, changing consumer behaviors, third-party payers, and increasing competition, it’s imperative for audiologists and other HCPs to adopt innovative strategies to reach and engage their target audience. Further reading: The Power of Storytelling in ..read more

Synopsis: HearUSA is opening new hearing centers that are designed to offer access to the latest prescription and over-the-counter hearing aids and provide additional hearing care resources. Key Takeaways: HearUSA is opening six new hearing centers in Texas, featuring a consumer-friendly environment designed to facilitate access to hearing care and combat hearing loss stigma. The centers offer a range of hearing aids from brands like Widex, Signia, and Sony, along with complimentary hearing evaluations. HearUSA’s mission to improve patient care is supported by the expansion of new centers acr ..read more

Summary: Widex will showcase its SmartRIC hearing aid, which boasts an L-shaped design that enhances directional microphone placement, at the AAA 2024+HearTECH Expo.  Key takeaways: Widex will introduce the SmartRIC hearing aid at AAA 2024+HearTECH Expo.  The design of the SmartRIC hearing aid is designed to elevate microphone positioning, enhancing signal-to-noise ratio for clearer hearing in noisy settings. Attendees can participate in expert-led courses on Widex solutions, including SmartRIC, and its impact on improving hearing experiences. Widex says it will showcase the new Wi ..read more