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Electroacoustic Evaluation of Smartphone-Based Hearing Aid Applications
Willy Nguyen1,2, Miseung Koo2, Jun Ho Lee2,3
1Master Sensory and Motor Neuroprosthetics, University of Montpellier, Montpellier, France.
Clinical and Experimental Otorhinolaryngology
|February 7, 2022
Summary
Smartphone hearing aid apps often show poor electroacoustic performance and processing delays compared to traditional hearing aids. While some high-end apps perform better, reliability varies, highlighting the need for improved standards in digital hearing solutions.
Area of Science:
- Audiology and Digital Health
- Electroacoustic Engineering
Background:
- Smartphone applications (apps) are increasingly explored as accessible alternatives to traditional hearing aids.
- The electroacoustic performance of these apps is crucial for effective hearing assistance.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the electroacoustic characteristics of smartphone-based hearing aid applications.
- To compare app performance against established hearing aid standards.
Main Methods:
- Processing delay measurements were conducted.
- Hearing instrument testing was performed.
- Simulated real ear measurements and head-and-torso simulator tests were utilized.
Main Results:
- Many apps exceeded recommended processing delay limits.
- Traditional hearing aids offered superior amplification and sound quality, followed by high-end apps.
- High-end apps demonstrated better amplification target matching than low-end apps, but output control was inconsistent.
- Few apps effectively improved signal-to-noise ratio in simulated environments.
Conclusions:
- Most smartphone hearing aid apps exhibit subpar electroacoustic performance compared to conventional hearing aids.
- The widespread use of hearing aid apps results in variable hearing performance without standardized reliability.
- Improvements in the quality and reliability of hearing aid apps are anticipated in the near future.
