Sony, a successful audio firm, is releasing its first over-the-counter (OTC) hearing aids, the CRE-C10, and CRE-E10. These were produced in partnership with hearing aid manufacturer WS Audiology. The devices cost $1,000 and $1,300 respectively.
This announcement followed a piece of great news in the summer when the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) in the United States gave the go-ahead for the sale of these OTC hearing devices.
In August, it was reported that the OTC category would only apply to hearing aids for adults with mild to moderate hearing impairments. Hearing aids for individuals with severe hearing problems will continue to require a prescription from a medical professional.
Sony's "Hearing Control" App
Engadget confirmed that the "Hearing Control" software from Sony is used to control and adjust them.
This app walks users through the setup process and allows them to customize various settings, such as volume control.
Engadget said that Sony enables a "self-fit" feature that automatically adjusts to appropriate predefined hearing profiles based on dozens of genuine, real-life audiogram readings.
CRE-C10
Battery life for the CRE-C10 model can last for up to 70 hours when the device is used continuously.
Sony claims that its OTC hearing aids are among the smallest available on the market. They also boast an unobtrusive design that makes them nearly unnoticeable while worn with excellent sound quality.
This month, it will be available for purchase for $1,000 from Amazon, Best Buy, and some hearing-care providers.
CRE-E10
The CRE-E10, on the other hand, has a design that is more comparable to earbuds and is powered by a rechargeable battery that can last for up to 26 hours between charges.
According to Sony, users can only connect to devices running iOS and listen to streaming audio or music since it is compatible with Bluetooth.
The price for one will be $1,300, available on the Sony website this coming winter.
Other Brands
The previous year, Bose and Lexie introduced their first OTC hearing devices, the SoundControl series. Just a few days ago, they released the first B1 model, which retails for $900.
Companies such as Jabra have also jumped on the bandwagon.
In addition, Sennheiser completed the acquisition of its consumer audio business to the hearing aid specialist Sonova last year.
OTC vs. Prescribed by Doctors
According to Consumer Reports, the cost of a hearing aid that a doctor prescribes can range anywhere from $1,000 to $4,000 for each ear. The costs for these OTC hearing devices are significantly lower than the cost of prescription ones.
According to NBC News, the purpose of the decision to finally roll out OTC devices is to make hearing aids more accessible and more affordable for millions of people in the U.S, the majority of whom are older adults because hearing loss is typically associated with advancing age.
It is now anticipated that a significant number of individuals would feel encouraged to seek assistance.
Also Read : Sony to Debut Olfactory Device, Tests Sense of Smell to Determine Early Signs of Dementia
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Written by Trisha Kae Andrada
