Following conversations in noisy places, keeping up with group discussions, or hearing clearly in challenging environments can be difficult for those with hearing loss. The new Phonak Infinio hearing aids address these common challenges through several technological advances that help make speech more understandable.

Understanding the Technology

The Phonak Infinio platform introduces significant improvements in speech clarity through its innovative dual-chip design. The Audéo Infinio Sphere model utilizes two separate computer chips - the ERA chip handles core sound processing and connectivity, while the DEEPSONIC chip focuses on separating speech from background noise in real-time using artificial intelligence.

The Power of Spheric Speech Clarity

The Spheric Speech Clarity system in Phonak Infinio represents a significant advance in speech understanding. Its ability to provide up to 10 decibels of signal-to-noise ratio improvement makes a substantial difference in daily conversations. To put this in practical terms, a 10 dB improvement can make speech sound twice as clear in challenging listening environments like restaurants, family gatherings, or outdoor settings.

This clarity comes from the system's sophisticated training process, which used 22 million real-world sound samples to teach the AI how to separate speech from background noise. This extensive training allows the system to recognize and process many different types of speech and noise patterns that occur in daily life. When someone speaks in a noisy environment, the system can quickly identify and enhance their voice while reducing competing sounds.

The real-world benefits of this technology appear in various situations. During restaurant conversations, the system helps focus on voices at your table while reducing the clatter of dishes and other diners' conversations. In outdoor settings, it can minimize wind noise and traffic sounds while maintaining clear speech. At family gatherings, it helps you follow conversations even when multiple people are talking in different areas of the room.

Personalized Sound Processing

The Infinio platform adapts to individual hearing needs through multiple performance levels and sound processing channels. The premium I90 level provides 20 fine-tuning channels for precise adjustments across different frequency ranges. Each model can be fitted with different receiver options - from S receivers for mild hearing loss to UP receivers for severe to profound hearing loss.

The SmartSpeech Technology suite includes features that work together to create a natural listening experience. Speech Enhancer improves clarity in quiet environments, while StereoZoom 2.0 helps focus on single voices in noise. Dynamic Noise Cancellation works continuously to reduce unwanted background sounds, making conversations more comfortable in various environments.

Smart Features for Better Communication

The Infinio platform includes several features designed specifically for better speech understanding:

• SmartSpeech Technology improves speech clarity in quiet settings and can focus on a single voice in noisy environments. When someone starts speaking, the hearing aids automatically adjust their settings to optimize speech understanding.
• The AutoSense OS 6.0 operating system continuously analyzes the listening environment and automatically adjusts settings as needed. This means you don't have to manually change programs when moving between different situations - the hearing aids adapt on their own.
• Motion Sensor Hearing adjusts settings based on whether you're sitting still, walking, or running, ensuring optimal hearing regardless of your activity level.

Battery Life and Charging Solutions

The Infinio platform offers convenient rechargeable solutions to match today's active lifestyles. The built-in lithium-ion batteries provide up to 16-18 hours of use on a full charge, meaning you can wear them confidently throughout your day. When you need a quick boost, the rapid charging feature gives you up to 3 hours of use from just 15 minutes of charging time.

Multiple charging options are available to suit different needs. The standard Phonak Charger RIC I provides reliable daily charging, while the ChargerGo RIC I includes a built-in power bank for charging on the move. The Audéo Infinio Sphere model uses its own specialized ChargerGo RIC Sphere I charger. LED indicators on all chargers clearly show charging status, making it simple to know when your hearing aids are ready to use.

Connectivity for Modern Life

The Infinio platform offers universal Bluetooth connectivity, compatible with both iOS and Android devices. This allows direct streaming of phone calls, music, and other audio directly to your hearing aids. For those who use Roger wireless microphones for better hearing over distance or in noise, the RogerDirect feature eliminates the need for external receivers.

Different Models for Different Needs

The Infinio family includes several models to match different hearing needs and preferences:

• The Audéo Infinio R is a rechargeable receiver-in-canal model that provides up to 16-18 hours of use on a single charge. It's available in four performance levels (I90, I70, I50, and I30) to match different budgets and hearing needs.
• The Audéo Infinio Sphere represents the premium offering, featuring the dual-chip technology for maximum performance in challenging listening situations. It's available in the I90 and I70 performance levels.
• For those with single-sided deafness, the CROS Infinio transmits sound from the non-hearing ear to the hearing ear, providing a more complete listening experience.

Built for Real Life

The Infinio platform understands that hearing aids need to work in real-world conditions. With an IP68 rating, these devices are protected against water and dust, having survived extensive durability testing. The rechargeable batteries provide all-day use, with quick charging options available when needed - just 15 minutes of charging provides up to 3 hours of use.

Proven Benefits

Research has shown that these technologies provide tangible benefits:

• Up to 36.7% better speech understanding in complex environments
• Up to 45% reduction in listening effort in quiet situations
• 21% less fatigue when using the Speech Enhancer feature

Schedule Your Consultation

We fit each Phonak Infinio hearing aid using real-ear measurements to ensure optimal performance for your specific hearing loss. The hearing aids can be paired with different receiver options and various ear tips or custom molds to match your hearing needs and comfort preferences.

If you're interested in experiencing how the Phonak Infinio can help make your conversations clearer, contact us at Southwest Balance, Dizziness & Ear Institute. Our experienced audiologists will work with you to determine if these hearing aids are right for your specific hearing needs and lifestyle. Call us at (602) 265-9000 to schedule your appointment.