Continuing to expand its approach to hearing enhancement, Widex has launched the Widex SmartRIC, a device that incorporates a new L-shaped design to improve microphone angles and enhance performance.
“Despite significant advances in hearing aid technology, hearing in noise is still the most commonly reported challenge for wearers,” said Widex Vice President of Marketing Alan Raffauf. “Widex SmartRIC addresses this by reimagining device design to elevate on the ear the hearing aid microphones, optimizing their directional focus on the sound sources that matter most. By rethinking the way sound is captured in a hearing aid, we’re helping wearers enjoy a more engaged life, a life where they hear more naturally and feel more connected in any listening situation.”
By placing the SmartRIC higher up on the ear, the angle between the device’s two microphones becomes closer to horizontal. This enables the directional microphone to align with what wearers are focusing on, resulting in an improved signal-to-noise ratio in even the most noisy environments. This enhancement is designed to help wearers better engage in every social situation and live their lives more fully.
Also, while Widex believes that in most situations natural sound is better than over-processed sound, it selectively applies directionality and noise reduction in specific noisy situations where wearers need support.
In addition to the L-shaped angle, Widex has made several other design enhancements to craft an elegant and seamless device that lets wearers enjoy the freedom of not having to think about their hearing aids when they are on the go.
On the go with more than one week off the grid
Widex SmartRIC features newly designed microphone inlets that effectively reduce wind and touch noise, often a significant nuisance for hearing aid wearers. Plus, SmartRIC is the company’s longest-lasting rechargeable RIC hearing aid, providing up to 37 hours on a single charge.
In addition, wearers on the move will benefit from the included fast-charging case — Widex’ first-ever portable charging solution. The compact case can fully charge the hearing aids in four hours, or add eight hours of continuous use through a 30-minute fast charge. The case offers five full charges and fits right into a pocket or small bag, empowering wearers with more than one week off the grid and mobility.
Widex SmartRIC is built upon the company’s PureSound with ZeroDelay technology platform that has set new industry standards for natural hearing. PureSound with ZeroDelay delivers the fastest sound processing in a digital hearing aid to eliminate the tinny, artificial sound commonly associated with other hearing aids – creating a more natural, true-to-life listening experience for wearers.
The SmartRIC will be available for purchase this month in five color options.
See also: JVC Releases FDA-Cleared OTC Hearing Aid
