Inside Oticon Zeal: A Conversation with Oticon’s Head of Audiology
Chris Norwood, Au.D., recently had the opportunity to sit down with Thomas Behrens, Head of Audiology and Director of the Center for Applied Audiology Research at Oticon, to discuss one of the most talked-about hearing aid releases of the year: the Oticon Zeal.
Watch the official podcast here!
During the conversation, Behrens shared how hearing aid technology has evolved over the past several decades, from improved speech understanding in noise to wireless connectivity and now artificial intelligence. According to Behrens, Oticon Zeal represents the culmination of those advancements by combining modern hearing technology, AI-powered sound processing, and wireless streaming into an incredibly small device that sits deep within the ear canal.
One of the most significant topics discussed was the challenge manufacturers have faced in creating a discreet hearing aid without sacrificing features. Oticon overcame this obstacle with a new medical-grade encapsulation technology that allows the electronics, battery, and wireless components to fit into a much smaller design.
Oticon Zeal in Action
Oticon Zeal has received an incredibly positive response. With over 58,000 fittings already completed worldwide, many users are drawn to its nearly invisible appearance while still benefiting from features such as smartphone connectivity, streaming capabilities, and advanced sound processing.
Behrens noted that the Zeal was primarily designed for first-time hearing aid users with mild to moderate hearing loss, especially those who may have delayed treatment because they wanted a more discreet solution. By combining cosmetic appeal with the latest technology, Oticon Zeal is helping more people take the first step toward better hearing.
Right now is an exciting time in audiology as so much research is being done to further understand how hearing and the brain work together. Behrens emphasized that this helps us create new and more precise diagnostics and ways to use technology to help individuals who have hearing loss.
Try Oticon Zeal for Yourself
If you missed the webinar and would like to learn more about the Oticon Zeal or find out whether it may be right for you, contact Evergreen Speech and Hearing Clinic today. We’re happy to answer your questions and discuss the latest advancements in hearing technology.