Question
Does Starkey have a custom rechargeable option with 2.4 GHz wireless technology?
Answer
Yes, Starkey's custom rechargeable is a truly unique technology and we are the first in the industry to bring this to the table. The lithium ion rechargeable custom devices have a beautifully sleek design with tons of face plate and shell color options as well. An important thing was to create a design that was innovative yet intuitive and effective for our patients. It starts with the faceplate and our use of the three-pin contact charging system. This makes it easy for charges to always be consistent and also makes it easy for the user to place the aids in the charging case. We had to think about the high variability of ears and that played a part in the design the charging posts. This design guarantees the hearing aids will always sit on the posts correctly and allow for as many different ear shapes and sizes as possible.
The custom rechargeable offers 23 hours of superior listening performance, and this includes four hours of streaming. The custom rechargeables will go from fully depleted, to fully charged in three and a half hours. We are also utilizing the 2.4 GHz wireless radio, meaning that we've got compatibility with Starkey's family of 2.4 GHz accessories, as well as direct from smartphone performance with Apple iOS technologies and compatible Android devices. We know that one of the things that Starkey has always been known for is our development and implementation of custom technology and these products are no different. We've really had amazing success since those were launched, earlier in 2020.
The custom rechargeable devices operate on the Thrive platform as well. As with the RIC and BTE styles, the custom styles have the embedded sensor technology and onboard artificial intelligence in both the Livio Edge AI and Livio AI products. The custom products are available in three styles: full shell, half shell, and ITC. All three styles can have up to 70 dB of gain. The full shell style can be built with a telecoil. And, as mentioned, they are available in a wide variety of both faceplate and shell colors.
In terms of the user control configuration for the custom rechargeable, you have a number of different ways in which you can personalize that for your specific patient. The default is to have both the rotary VC and the push button. However, space permitting, you may have to sacrifice one of those options. Of course, you may choose to just have one of those options or no user control at all. All custom rechargeable devices are also compatible with the Thrive mobile app for ultimate control and personalization of the listening experience.
This Ask the Expert is an excerpt from Rechargeable Technology Like Nothing Else, From No-One Else. For more information, visit www.starkey.com or visit Starkey's Partner Page on AudiologyOnline.
