EDEN PRAIRIE, MINNESOTA – Starkey has announced the launch of Edge AI, its latest advancement in hearing technology designed to enhance patient care with improved performance and connectivity. Building on the success of its previous Genesis AI platform, Edge AI introduces new features such as a groundbreaking G2 Neuro Processor, deep neural network processing, and enhanced Bluetooth LE Audio capabilities.
The technology aims to provide superior sound management, extended battery life, and a focus on health and wellness innovations for hearing aid users.
“Starkey remains the industry leader in innovation, continuing to introduce technology that has never been seen or heard before. We were the first to bring AI technology to the hearing industry and, last year, we redefined flagship technology with an all-new processor, new hearing experience, and new possibilities. Now, with the launch of Edge AI, the era of excellence continues at the speed of innovation. Our vision to be the best endures as we push the edge of what’s possible to bring better hearing for all.”
–Brandon Sawalich, President and CEO at Starkey
Starkey President and CEO, Brandon Sawalich on stage at the Edge AI launch event in Minneapolis
Improved Performance and Processing Power
Edge AI introduces the G2 Neuro Processor, the next generation of technology from Starkey. Equipped with a Neural Processing Unit (NPU) with Deep Neural Network (DNN) processing capabilities, Edge AI offers superior performance without sacrificing battery life. The G2 Neuro Processor, which features the industry’s only NPU fully integrated into the chip, ensures efficient power management, allowing the waterproof Edge AI RIC RT to offer up to 51 hours of battery life.
The enhanced Neuro Sound Technology 2.0 is said to improve speech identification accuracy by 30% and classifies challenging listening environments, such as multi-talker situations, while enhancing the signal-to-noise ratio.
“Building on the success of Genesis AI, Neuro Sound Technology 2.0 lets Starkey offer patients and providers the most innovative and best-sounding products in the industry,” said Achin Bhowmik, Ph.D., Chief Technology Officer and Executive Vice President of Engineering.
Starkey’s Achin Bhowmik on stage discussing the technology inside Edge AI
“With the industry’s only neural processing unit fully integrated into the chip, Edge AI is our most powerful noise management system.”
Enhanced Connectivity with Bluetooth LE Audio and Auracast™
Edge AI incorporates the next generation of Bluetooth connectivity through Low Energy (LE) Audio, supporting a broader range of devices with improved performance and fewer dropouts. LE Audio also introduces Auracast™ broadcast streaming, enabling users to connect to a wider variety of audio sources seamlessly.
Starkey has also launched the Edge TV Streamer, which is 60% smaller than previous models and uses LE Audio for high-fidelity streaming from televisions to LE Audio-enabled hearing aids like Edge AI.
Health and Wellness Features
Starkey continues its focus on integrating health and wellness into hearing aids. Edge AI includes features such as onboard sensors that support a self-guided balance assessment exercise, designed to help identify and manage patients at an increased risk of falls.
Starkey was the first to introduce 3D sensors, step counting, social engagement tracking, and a fall detection and alert system in hearing aids.
Enhanced Mobile Experience
The My Starkey Mobile Application has also been updated to support new streaming capabilities and enhance the user experience.
With the introduction of Edge AI, the app now includes Apple Watch support, allowing patients to adjust volume, switch programs, or control Edge Mode+ settings directly from their wrist for added convenience.
For more details about Edge AI, visit Starkey’s website.
About Starkey
Starkey is a privately held, global hearing technology company headquartered in Eden Prairie, Minnesota. Founded by Bill Austin in 1967, Starkey is known for its innovative design, development and distribution of comprehensive digital hearing systems. Led today by President and CEO Brandon Sawalich, Starkey is the only American-owned provider of hearing technologies. The company has more than 5,000 employees, operates 29 facilities and does business in more than 100 markets worldwide. Learn more at starkey.com.
Source: Starkey
