World first ‘Internet of Things’ hearing aid unleashes world of possibilities

“With Opn, the Internet of Things starts to matter”

With over 500 million people worldwide suffering from hearing loss, Danish specialists in advanced audiology and hearing aid technology Oticon, has announced the launch of the innovative Oticon Opn. The ground-breaking new listening device introducing a number of world firsts and overcoming challenges today’s most advanced solutions have been unable to solve.

The new device uses a range of innovation systems offering a range of new and unique benefits for users according to the company. Through its fast Velox platform, Opn is able to handle noisy environments and follow rapidly changing conversations involving several speakers, overcoming the infamous ‘restaurant dilemma’. The platform employs an “open sound” approach, handling multiple speech and noise sources, even in complex listening situations.

Additionally, the device features revolutionary BrainHearing technology and is the first hearing aid proven to be ‘easier’ on the brain, reducing cognitive load and improving both memory & understanding. Tests have consistently shown that Opn increases speech understanding by 30%* with 20% less listening effort* required, allowing users to also remember 20% more** of what was said.

Opn also introduces TwinLink technology to the new device, making it the first dual communication system to combine binaural processing with streamer-free connectivity

The new communication technology ensures hassle-free communication without compromising binaural capabilities or battery consumption.

“Oticon has always been about audiology and technology working in harmony, and with Opn we’re introducing new and ground-breaking technology to address real issues that affect those with hearing loss,” said Søren Nielsen, President of Oticon A/S

The Internet of Things That Matter

As the world’s first listening device compatible with the web-based service IFTTT (If This Then That), Opn is also capable of unlocking a world of potential for the Internet of Things and connected device communication.

Through project ON, a new technology compatible with the online service If This Then That (ifttt.com), the hearing aid will be capable of communicating directly with other connected devices such as door bells, smoke detectors and baby alarms.

“With Opn we’ve taken a giant leap forward – for both hearing aids and the Internet of Things,” said Søren Nielsen. “With Opn, the Internet of Things starts to matter – you could say that this will change people’s lives.”

*Compared to Alta2 Pro
**Individual benefit may vary depending on prescription