Beltone has joined the artificial intelligence (AI) race with its newest hearing aid, Envision—the latest flagship brand of one of the largest hearing care networks in the United States. Launched in January 2025, Envision is designed for you to hear conversations clearly, feel confident, and ensure that everyday listening is effortless and natural.

Using AI-driven processing, a real-time noise management system, and the latest in Bluetooth wireless connectivity with the smallest behind-ear design available, Beltone Envision hearing aids are engineered to focus on what matters most—speech clarity—while minimizing distracting background noise.

Celebrating its 85th anniversary in 2025, Beltone is the second-largest hearing aid network in the United States, with only slightly fewer retail offices than Amplifon (Miracle-Ear). Chances are that you have a Beltone store near you with 1500+ locations nationwide offering in-person care. With its origins and headquarters in Chicago, Beltone is part of Denmark's GN Group, which also manufactures ReSound and Jabra hearing aids. In 2025, Beltone was recognized by Newsweek as one of the top-three best hearing networks in the United States.

What we like about Beltone Envision

  • Smart AI Sound Processing
    Beltone Envision introduces advanced AI-based audio technology that enhances speech understanding and listening comfort.
  • Cutting-Edge Bluetooth Features
    Envision includes support for Bluetooth Low Energy (LE) Audio and Auracast, allowing seamless streaming from compatible Android and iOS devices. Along with ReSound Vivia, this is the only true Auracast-enabled hearing aid.
  • Sleek, Compact Fit
    The Envision micro receiver-in-ear (RIE) is one of the most discreet devices of its kind. Its small form factor doesn’t compromise on performance or comfort.
  • Rechargeable and Disposable Battery Options
    Unlike some brands that only offer rechargeable models, Beltone lets users choose between traditional disposable batteries and modern rechargeable options.
  • Tailored to Your Hearing Needs
    As a prescription-based hearing aid, Envision is professionally programmed to suit your hearing profile. For optimal results, it's important that your provider uses real-ear measurements (REM) during fitting.
  • Telecoil Option for Loop Systems
    The Envision RIE model with the size 13 battery includes a telecoil (T-coil), which offers clearer audio in loop-enabled public spaces and Auracast-supported venues.
  • Great App and Tap Controls
    The Beltone HearMax app is highly rated and allows you to wirelessly adjust settings, volume, and programs. Tap control on the microRIE and onboard buttons also add convenience.
  • Remote Support Through the App
    Beltone’s HearMax app makes it easy to access remote care. In many cases, your provider can adjust settings or troubleshoot issues without requiring an in-person appointment.
  • Reliable Daily Power
    The rechargeable microRIE can be used for a full day on a single charge, though your mileage may vary depending on streaming usage and environmental factors.
  • Fast Charging On-the-Go
    Need a quick boost? A 10-minute charge gives you nearly 3 extra hours of hearing time—great for busy days or when you forget to recharge them.
  • Works with Beltone Accessories
    Envision is compatible with Beltone’s full line of wireless accessories, including TV streamers, remote mics, and control devices—offering added functionality for varied listening scenarios.
  • Charger Choices to Fit Your Needs
    Choose from several charging options, including premium cases that store additional charges and provide rugged protection for travel or daily use.

Limitations

  • Precise Fitting Is Crucial
    In HearAdvisor's lab testing of the ReSound Viva platform (on which Envision is based), the default programming may provide less gain than needed. If you want optimal performance, insist on a provider who uses real-ear measurements to get the most accurate amplification for your hearing loss.
  • AI Still Has Room to Improve
    Although the AI-based features are impressive, our tests suggest that Envision’s noise reduction was less dramatic than that of some competitors.
  • Higher cost
    In general, Beltone hearing aids aren't cheap. Particularly for the newer products, you can expect a higher investment, although costs vary depending on the provider and bundled services.
  • Clinic Visit Required
    Envision is a prescription-fit hearing aid that typically requires 2-4 office visits for a successful fitting. We think this is by far the best route for most consumers; however, if you're not committed to this and you have a mild-to-moderate hearing loss, you might look into OTC hearing aids.
  • Auracast Availability Still Limited
    Despite Envision, Commerce, and Serene's unique readiness for Auracast, few public spaces currently support it. These aids are well-positioned for the future, but the benefits of this feature may be limited until adoption increases.
The Beltone Envision microRIE (receiver-in-ear) hearing aid is one of the most cosmetically appealing available.
The Beltone Envision microRIE (receiver-in-ear) hearing aid is one of the most cosmetically appealing available.

Key Distinguishing Tech Features of Beltone Envision

Essentially, Envision uses the successful previous-generation Beltone Serene technology (launched in October 2023) and adds GN's new AI chip, giving it many new, advanced sound processing advantages.

Beltone Envision's technology shares the same chip as its sister-company's AI-driven device, the ReSound Vivia hearing aid, while Serene shares technology from the slightly older ReSound Nexia. This means Envision has all the advantages of Serene hearing aids, plus it adds:

  • Artificial intelligence and processing power
    Envision introduces dual-chip architecture that includes a separate Deep Neural Network (DNN) processor trained on 13.5 million speech samples. This enables more advanced, real-time adaptation to complex listening environments and significantly improves speech-in-noise performance.
  • Enhanced speech-in-noise and directionality
    Although Serene has exceptional directionality and speech in noise processing, Envision features a dynamic AI-driven environmental classification system and expanded low-frequency directionality with a 4-microphone binaural beamformer.
  • Fully enabled for Auracast
    Beltone’s forward-looking inclusion of the Auracast Assistant in the HearMax™ app makes it easy for users to find and connect to available broadcasts today (although these are still scarce, at best).
  • Improved fitting software and easier repairs
    Beltone has made improvements to its fitting software, making it easier for hearing providers to align the best receivers and domes—critical elements for listening satisfaction—to an individual’s hearing loss. They’ve also introduced new microphone filter covers which should help reduce the frequency of needed repairs.

In short, Beltone Envision is a newer and more advanced platform, which should be especially appealing for users who need top-tier speech clarity in noisy settings, as well as hands-free calling and future-proof features like Auracast that you'll also find in Serene.

Serene remains an excellent mid-tier choice, but it doesn’t offer the same AI-powered processing as Envision. As a side-note, at HearingTracker, we're big fans of "essential" technology when it's fit by professionals who adhere to best practices like real-ear measurement and speech-in-noise testing; that's why we think Beltone Achieve and the newly introduced Beltone Commerce are also exceptional choices for budget-conscious consumers.

Beltone Envision hearing aid.
Beltone Envision hearing aid.

Beltone Envision Models

Beltone Envision hearing aids come in two sleek receiver-in-ear (RIE) styles (also known as receiver-in-canal or RIC styles):

  • Rechargeable microRIE– A rechargeable Bluetooth-enabled model, available with multiple charging options, including a portable premium charger.
  • RIE– Battery-powered options that use size 312 and size 13 disposable batteries, respectively, catering to different preferences for power and runtime.

There are also options for people with one-sided (unilateral) hearing loss or single-sided deafness (SSD), providing a CROS transmitter that routes sound from the poorer ear to the better ear to ensure all-around audibility.

All models are designed with comfort and discretion in mind, offering a slim, modern appearance that fits comfortably behind the ear. The microRIE even includes tap control features, allowing users to perform simple actions like answering calls with just a tap on the hearing aid.

Beltone Envision is available in three performance tiers—17 (premier), 9 (middle range), and 6 (essential)—so you can choose the right balance of features and price for your lifestyle, as well as 10 color options.

Circle of 10 Beltone Envision devices in different colors
Beltone Envision comes in 10 different colors.

Although Beltone Envision is currently offered only in RIE styles, we expect that other styles, like custom in-ear or behind-the-ear models, could be added to the lineup in the future.

For those who use telecoil-based assistive listening systems, the RIE with the size 13 battery comes standard with a built-in telecoil, and the other Envision models can access telecoil technology via Beltone’s MultiMic+ accessory.

Smarter Hearing Through Artificial Intelligence and Intelligent Noise Management

Below, we take a closer look at the inner workings of Beltone Envision hearing aids.

AI in Envision

Envision is Beltone's first hearing aid line that uses artificial intelligence to constantly monitor your environment and adapt to changing soundscapes. What makes Beltone Envision particularly powerful is its dual-chip architecture, a unique hearing aid architecture also employed by Beltone's competitor, Phonak Audéo Sphere. It pairs Beltone’s proven processing chip used in Serene with a separate Deep Neural Network (DNN) AI chip developed by GN that helps the hearing aid learn and adapt on the fly.

DNN is a form of AI that allows the hearing aid to be "taught” to respond better to varied soundscapes in real time. The overall goal is to allow the hearing aid to work similarly to the brain, enabling more accurate representations of sound and better access to speech in noisy situations.

According to GN, the DNN system behind Envision has been trained on more than 13.5 million speech samples and can perform up to 4.9 trillion operations per day. This allows the system to distinguish voices from background noise with remarkable precision. Whether you're moving from a quiet office to a busy street or navigating a noisy party, Envision adjusts dynamically to ensure speech remains as clear as possible.

Unlike traditional hearing aids, which might blunt important sounds along with noise, Envision intelligently reduces unwanted distractions—like the hum of air conditioning, clattering dishes, or wind—while preserving the nuances of speech and other meaningful sounds.

The DNN and enhanced speech-in-noise system can be activated via the app by the hearing aid user when needed, putting AI to work in the toughest hearing environments. Once activated, the DNN chip helps prioritize speech over noise, seamlessly integrating with the person’s perception of their environment.

Advanced Noise Management System for Real-World Performance

One of Envision's standout features is its real-time noise management system. Traditional noise reduction systems often make sounds seem flat or remove important environmental cues, but Envision’s AI-driven approach keeps sounds lively and natural, according to GN.

It uses a four-microphone binaural beamforming system to sharpen voices even in loud places and extends this directional processing into the lower frequency ranges. Although lab tests show that Envision significantly improves speech clarity, real-world experiences may vary depending on ear tip choices, environmental noise, and the user’s specific hearing profile.

Stay Connected with LE Audio and Auracast

Beltone Envision is among the first hearing aids to fully embrace the new Bluetooth® Low Energy (LE) Audio standard, offering seamless, high-quality streaming across compatible iOS and Android devices. LE Audio represents a major leap forward from older protocols like Made for iPhone (MFi) and Android ASHA, providing broader compatibility and better energy efficiency.

With Beltone Envision, making and receiving calls is easy.

  • Hands-free calling is available for users with iPhone 11 or newer devices running iOS 18 or later.
  • On the Android side, devices with Android 13 or newer can also take advantage of hands-free functionality when paired with LE Audio.

Of course, wireless streaming, remote controls, and hands-free features vary slightly depending on the model and the smartphone you're using, so it’s always a good idea to check Beltone’s device compatibility guide.

Apple and Windows 11 PCs can also pair directly with hearing aids using Bluetooth LE Audio. Finally, some newer Android phones allow users to change the hearing aid presets in the phone's native settings.

At present, GN's latest hearing aids, like Envision and Commence, are the only hearing aids fully activated to receive Auracast broadcasts (i.e., no future firmware updates are needed like for other "Auracast-ready" hearing aids). These hearing aids are opening up a future where users can easily connect to public audio broadcasts without needing to pair individually. We think Auracast has amazing potential to change not just how people with hearing loss view accessibility with hearing aids, but how all people view any audio products with Auracast capabilities.

The new Auracast Assistant in the Beltone app is one more step toward making this revolutionary broadcasting technology a reality in compatible hearing aids and headphones.
The new Auracast Assistant in the Beltone app is one more step toward making this revolutionary broadcasting technology a reality in compatible hearing aids and headphones.

Auracast adoption is still in its early phases, and it will take several years before it is widely available in public venues such as theaters, sports bars, arenas and stadiums, airports, lecture and symphony halls, and places of worship. However, Beltone’s forward-looking inclusion of the Auracast Assistant in the HearMax™ app makes it easy for users to find and connect to available broadcasts today.

Powerful Rechargeability

The microRIE model is equipped with an internal lithium-ion rechargeable battery that offers up to 30 hours of use. Heavy audio streaming is likely to bring the typical battery life closer to 24 hours, which is still impressive for everyday users. GN says if you stream music, podcasts, or phone calls for half your day, you can still expect around 20 hours of battery life.

And if you need a quick top-up? A 10-minute fast charge can give you nearly 3 hours of extra listening time.

The Envision portable charger is solidly built with clear LED indicators showing the charge status. It connects via a USB-C port for easy and reliable charging. Plus, the charger’s internal power bank provides up to three additional full charges on the go—perfect for traveling.

The only downside? The portable charger is a little larger and heavier than some competing RIC models.

The disposable battery models will typically get 6-10 days of battery life for the size 312 and 6-14 days for size 13 RIEs.

With all models, battery life will vary depending on factors such as your hearing loss, streaming, environmental noise levels, age of the devices, and more.

Beltone HearMax App

The Beltone HearMax™ app lets you control your hearing aids from mobile devices. It's compatible with Apple Watch®, and both iPhone and Android smartphones.

HearMax is an intuitive companion for Envision hearing aids. It offers seamless control over sound settings and personalization. You can adjust the volume of environmental and streamed sounds, switch programs, and fine-tune settings like noise reduction and speech focus.

Beltone HearMax app and Apple Watch version.
Beltone HearMax app and Apple Watch version.

Sound Enhancer is particularly useful for adjusting the hearing aids for speech focus, noise reduction, and wind noise. The Find My Hearing Aid function can also tell you where your hearing aids were last connected to your smartphone or tablet. Additionally, Remote Care is also offered in the app, allowing your hearing care professional to speak with you and/or make basic adjustments and updates to your devices, possibly saving you an office visit.

Final Verdict

With Beltone Envision, users get a powerful blend of AI technology, smart connectivity, stylish design, and robust battery life—all crafted to make hearing and connecting simpler and more natural than ever before. Whether you're navigating a bustling street or enjoying a quiet night at home, Envision helps you stay engaged with the world around you.