ExSilent introduced the QLeaf Pro invisible hearing aid featuring new AirTAP technology that makes it simple to switch between four program settings optimized for different listening environments.
The young independent hearing aid manufacturer based in the Netherlands made a splash in 2009 when it introduced ExSilent Q invisible hearing aid, which sits deep within the ear canal and features a soft modular tip that doesn’t require a custom ear mold fitting. It went on to introduce the QLeaf hearing aid in 2010, which was smaller and came with a more powerful digital platform featuring either four or eight channels and eight or 12 bands for more robust sound processing.
Now the QLeaf Pro has a solution for one of the toughest design challenges for makers of digital hearing aids that sit so deep within the ear canal to be virtually invisible: how to change program settings without having to remove the hearing aid and manually push a button or reset a switch. Some manufacturers have a magnetic wand that you can wave near your ear that triggers a magnetic switch, and others have remote control devices you can carry in your pocket. The AirTAP technology eliminates the need for an extra device by responding directly to the pressure change when you simply tap your ear gently with your finger, also eliminating the need for a switch or button on the device.
The QLeaf Pro’s four program settings can be adjusted based on the user’s lifestyle and listening needs, with settings providing more amplification in quiet library-like surroundings and more noise suppression in much louder environments such as restaurants. Its slick modular design, with a slide-in-battery compartment sitting between the microphone and speaker, lessens the possibility of feedback. ExSilent also introduced a new programmer for audiologists, with standard settings as well as fine-tuning options that enable a faster and more accurate fitting process.
Invisible hearing aids are rapidly establishing a new market category in the hearing aid industry, where the stigma of being seen wearing a visible hearing aid is still a substantial barrier to hearing assistance products reaching millions of consumers who need them. Several leading manufacturers and new independents have introduced tiny digital products that sit deep within the ear canal: Siemens just introduced its iMini invisible device; Starkey Laboratories last year entered the market with an invisible hearing aid marketed by multiple Starkey business units; ReSound recently introduced a tiny hearing aid with innovative remote microphone that extends via an invisible wire from the processing unit deep in the ear canal to a location hidden under the outer ear’s cymba conch; and Lyric Hearing, recently acquired by Phonak parent Sonova Holding, offers an extended-wear hearing aid that sits deep within the ear canal and is replaced by the audiologist every few months.
Chad says
It’s great that hearing loop advocacy is spreading! We too are advocates of hearing loops as both my mother and father always have a hard time in public venues. Our goal is to help people hear better…live better. We do this through education, providing products for the hearing impaired and installing hearing loops in public venues. You may visit us for resources and information at Assist2Hear.com
Will Webb says
Wow! If I read this article correct I am really challenged with just 3 channels and my digital aid is behind the ear, looks like I need to check out an upgrade. I hear well but the in ear canal with better range of clarity would be nice. Got my aids from Ocala Hearing Center and I have been pleased but maybe I need a check up since its been over 3 years. I am going to check this out more to see if it can help me as I only have minimal hearing in one ear and I am somewhat challenged daily trying to hear folks.
Wes S says
one of the toughest design challenges for makers of digital hearing aids that sit so deep within the ear canal to be virtually invisible: how to change program settings without having to remove the hearing aid and manually push a button or reset a switch
This doesn’t seem like a tough challenge. It’s called a “remote control.”
Why aid manufacturers don’t provide such a thing is not clear, particularly given the fact that aids have been sending and receiving radio waves in various protocols for years now — these days, Bluetooth seems to be gaining traction.