31/05/2025
The Phonak Audéo Sphere Infinio is a significant advancement in hearing aid technology, launched by Phonak (part of the Sonova Group) in August/September 2024. It's particularly notable for its integration of Artificial Intelligence (AI) and a dual-chip system designed to enhance speech clarity, especially in noisy environments.
Here's a breakdown of its key aspects:
Key Features & Technology:
* Dual-Chip Technology: The Audéo Sphere Infinio is powered by two chips:
* Phonak ERA™: An ultra-responsive chip for general hearing aid functions.
* DEEPSONIC™: The world's first dedicated AI chip for real-time sound processing within a hearing aid. This chip is crucial for its advanced noise reduction and speech separation capabilities.
* Spheric Speech Clarity: This is a hallmark feature, driven by the DEEPSONIC chip. It aims to deliver clear speech from any direction, even in complex and noisy listening situations, by separating unwanted noise from speech. Phonak claims an unprecedented 10dB improvement in Signal-to-Noise Ratio (SNR).
* Real-Time AI Sound Processing: The AI analyzes sound environments in real-time, adapting and optimizing settings to reduce listening effort and improve speech understanding.
* AutoSense OS™ 6.0: This operating system intelligently adapts to various sound environments, providing optimal gain for speech understanding and listening comfort.
* Rechargeable Lithium-ion Batteries: The hearing aids are rechargeable, offering a full day of use on a single charge. Some users report even longer battery life depending on usage.
* Enhanced Bluetooth Connectivity: It offers universal Bluetooth connectivity for seamless streaming of calls, music, and media from various devices. It supports Bluetooth® (A2DP), Bluetooth® Low Energy (LE), and is Auracast™ Ready. It can connect to up to 8 Bluetooth devices and two simultaneously.
* Hands-Free Calling: Users can make and receive calls without needing to hold their phone, as the hearing aid microphones pick up their voice.
* Tap Controls: Convenient tap controls allow users to activate voice assistants (Siri, Google), accept/end calls, and pause/resume audio.
* ActiveVent™ Receiver: This accessory (with compatible Infinio rechargeable RIC hearing aids) allows for dynamic changes in the ear canal's openness, enhancing music and streamed audio quality by blocking out external sound when desired. (Note: users may perceive a clicking sound when the vent engages/disengages).
* Durability: Swiss-engineered for robustness and water resistance (IP68 rating).
* Phonak App: Allows users to control volume, select programs, and customize settings.
Benefits (as claimed by Phonak and reported by users):
* Exceptional speech clarity in noisy environments, potentially doubling the listening range.
* Reduced listening effort and fatigue.
* Improved hearing performance in diverse soundscapes.
* Seamless connectivity for calls and streaming.
* Comfortable and discreet design (though some users note its slightly larger size due to the advanced technology).
Models and Availability:
The Phonak Audéo Sphere Infinio is a Receiver-In-the-Canal (RIC) style hearing aid. It is available in various technology levels (Premium 90, Advanced 70, Standard 50, Essential 30) and colors.
