However, the new smart hearing aid from Resound Linx is that rare piece of wearable tech that is not only practical, but immediately usable by anyone with a hearing impairment. Officially launched globally on Monday, the wireless Bluetooth device was developed by Denmark-based GN ReSound.
Created to work seamlessly with the iPhone and iPad, the ReSound Linx allows the wearer to adjust the sound settings from their smartphone, an important feature that allows anyone wearing a hearing aid to be less conspicuous while adjusting their device in public settings.
"What makes the hearing smarter than other hearing aids is the direct connection between Apple's devices and the hearing aid," Lasse Sorensen, GN ReSound brand management director said. "Also, the hearing aid can exchange data with the iPhone using the ReSound smart app, which gives the user new ways to personalize their hearing experience."
One example of that functionality is the device's ability to remember specific sound experience settings from a particular location by tagging its GPS location and then offering the option to use that location-specific setting whenever you return to that location.
Another way the GPS function comes in handy is as a locator. If you lose one of the devices, you can search for it using the ReSound Linx app, which raises the volume level on the app's display as you get closer to the lost device.
Sorensen gave us an "ears-on" walkthrough with the device, and it lived up to all of the company's claims. Nevertheless, laying your hands on this device won't come cheap. According to Sorensen, the general price range for advanced hearing aids is around $2,900 to $3,500, and the final price for the ReSound Linx will be about 10% higher.
The company is currently accepting inquiries via its website, but as of this writing no final price or release date had been announced.
Image: GN RESOUND