Oticon Intent

Intent is Oticon's latest flagship hearing aid. Launched in February 2024, Intent features a fully-redesigned exterior and a new chip, which Oticon claims enhances speech clarity in background noise through improved Deep Neural Network ("DNN 2.0") technology. It also includes More Sound Intelligence 3.0 for better noise reduction and introduces 4D sensor technology for adaptive sound settings based on the wearer's movement and environment, aiming for improved speech comprehension.

New design and comfort

The Oticon Intent introduces a refreshed design, marking the first major redesign of Oticon's receiver in canal hearing aids in three generations. This model boasts a compact form, making it Oticon's smallest Bluetooth receiver in canal hearing aid to date. Despite its slightly bulkier profile compared to previous models, the design aims for discretion and comfort, even for those wearing glasses. Removing the rocker switch in favor of a single button is a notable change, prioritizing simplicity and ease of use. The availability of nine matte colors, including a new sky blue, allows for personalization while maintaining a low profile.

Advanced internal technology

Oticon's commitment to innovation is evident in the Intent's internal features, powered by the new Sirius chip. This upgrade enhances the hearing aid's ability to provide clearer speech in noisy environments through advancements in Deep Neural Network technology (DNN 2.0) and Oticon's MoreSound Intelligence 3.0.

A form of machine learning and artificial intelligence (AI), Oticon's original DNN technology was built using enriched learning from over 12 million sound inputs during its training phase. The new DNN 2.0 expands on this number and includes even more diverse listening situations. 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.

MoreSound Intelligence 3.0 offers up to 12-decibel noise suppression, improving your ability to engage in conversations in challenging settings. Oticon claims that these features can result in accessing 35% more speech cues, offering a significant boost in clarity and conversation quality.

Groundbreaking 4D Sensor technology

A standout feature of the Oticon Intent is its 4D Sensor technology. Oticon claims this innovation makes Intent the world's first hearing aid to adapt settings based on conversational activity, head and body movement, and environmental noise. This technology promises to enhance speech comprehension by 15% in dynamic environments, such as restaurants, by tailoring the hearing aid's response to the wearer's specific needs in different scenarios.

People's hearing needs are not always the same, even when they're in the same room. Intent is built to recognize the unique and diverse listening needs of individual users, moment by moment. Oticon says the 4D Sensor technology allows Oticon Intent to recognize when a user’s listening needs change and adapt accordingly, providing greater access to the sounds and speech in a full, 360º sound environment.

Enhanced Connectivity

Addressing past challenges with wireless connectivity, Oticon has overhauled this aspect of its hearing aids in Intent. Users of Intent can enjoy direct Bluetooth streaming and hands-free communication via iOS devices (iPhone 11 or later) and compatible Android™ phones and tablets (Android 10 or later), and Windows PCs.

The introduction of Bluetooth LE audio and Auracast-ready technology is a game-changer, promising a future where sound from public announcements or performances can be streamed directly to your hearing aids. While it may take time for public venues to adopt this technology, Oticon Intent also features a built-in telecoil, ensuring you can benefit from improved sound quality in equipped spaces today.

Rechargeability improvements

Oticon Intent also brings improvements in rechargeability. A full charge of only 2 hours can now provide you with 20 hours of hearing aid use, while a 1-hour charge gives you 16 hours. If you're in a pinch or forgot to recharge your aids, a quick supercharge of just 15 or 30 minutes will provide you with 4 and 8 hours of use, respectively.

However, a notable change is the inability to replace rechargeable batteries on-site at a hearing clinic—a unique convenience offered in previous Oticon models appreciated by hearing providers and consumers alike. This may mean you have to make do without your hearing aids or use a loaner while your hearing aids are sent to Oticon for battery replacement. Oticon asserts that the new battery technology should last 4 to 5 years, aiming to mitigate concerns over longevity and refurbishment.

Suitability and Technology Levels

The Oticon Intent is designed to accommodate a wide range of hearing losses, offering interchangeable receivers to match different levels of hearing impairment. With four technology levels available, from Intent 1 to Intent 4, users can select the option that best meets their needs and preferences.

Final Thoughts

As we await the opportunity to test the Oticon Intent extensively and gather real-world feedback, these initial features and claims by Oticon present a promising advancement in hearing aid technology. The combination of innovative design, enhanced speech clarity, groundbreaking sensor technology, improved connectivity, and rechargeability makes the Oticon Intent a noteworthy contender for those seeking the latest in hearing support.