Yes, Starkey pushed the envelope and introduced Starkey Edge in October 2024, which might be the last product launch we experienced in 2024. What are the improvements in Starkey Edge versus Starkey Genesis, which was just released a few months back? Continue reading this post to learn more.
First and foremost, I should clarify that the Edge mode has been there since the introduction of Starkey Evolv back in 2020. So, it may be a bit confusing for the community to differentiate the Edge mode that you can activate in older models of Starkey hearing aids from Starkey Edge, which is the latest technology platform.
Also, I am yet to receive a demo kit, but as usual, I will share my experience using the Starkey Edge on an update to this article so please register to our mailing list if interested to receive updates.
What are the improvements from Starkey Genesis to Starkey Edge AI?
The main improvement from Starkey Genesis to Starkey Edge is twofold, better AI and DNN hence better speech in noise, and better connectivity through LE Audio and Auracast.
If you only need a quick list of the improvements from Starkey Genesis to Starkey Edge here they are:
The Edge mode can be on autopilot mode meaning the DNN and AI of the Starkey Edge will scan and adapt to the best sound experience automatically on the go (when the Edge mode is activated either by a double tap or through the Starkey app). On Starkey Genesis and Evolv, the Edge mode was situational and it would not adapt to different situations unless the user attempted to trigger it again in a new soundscape.
X100 time more DNN processing power (vs. Genesis AI)
Neuro Sound Technology 2.0
Up to 13 dB better SNR in hearing speech in a noisy environment (vs unaided with closed-domes)
6 dB better noise reduction (vs Genesis)
LE Audio and Auracast ready meaning X2 time streaming range (vs Genesis)
Improved Bluetooth connectivity compared to Genesis
Onboard sensor for listening intention and forward focus (same as Genesis)
40 hours of battery on mRIC and 50 hours on RIC (same as Genesis)
Fall detector (a feature in the Starkey app)
Balance assessment (a new feature in the Starkey app)
Balance training and lessons (coming up in the Starkey app)
How effective is the Edge mode in Starkey Edge?
According to Starkey's in-house lab tests, the Starkey Edge mode when activated could improve the word recognition score by 11%. The biggest advantage of the Edge mode in Starkey Edge hearing aids is that unlike Starkey Genesis the Edge mode in Starkey Edge will automatically adapt to the environment whereas the Edge mode in Genesis needed to be triggered again for a change in the soundscape.
What are the form factors of Starkey Edge hearing aids?
Starkey Edge hearing aids are ready to order in the UK in all models including mini RIC (mRIC), RIC, CIC and IIC. The Starkey Edge Ai CIC is the only custom CIC in the market with Bluetooth capability.
What is the battery run time of Starkey Edge hearing aids?
The battery run time of rechargeable Starkey Edge hearing aids is one of the best in the industry:
51 hours for Starkey Edge RIC RT
41 hours for Starkey Edge mRIC R
42 hours for Starkey Edge custom R
6 days for Starkey RIC 312
7 days for Starkey Edge CIC 312
Is LE Audio a big deal, why?
Most of the hearing aids launched in 2024 including Phonak Infinio, Resound Nexia and now Starkey Edge embrace Low-Energy Audio Bluetooth and Auracast. This feature is yet to be widely used but in my opinion, it is very likely that the new TV, a new sound system or a pair of headphones you purchase already have these capabilities in them. Please see a list of benefits of LE Audio Bluetooth and refer to this article for more details.
Please note that the Starkey Edge has its own new Starkey TV streamer which is LE Audio, meaning anyone else in the room with compatible headphones or hearing aids from other brands will be able to hear the TV streaming which is a great advantage for multi-user families.
Conclusion
Is Starkey Edge the best AI and DNN-driven hearing aid in the market? Well, I think the race for AI-DNN processing just truly has begun in 2024. I'll reflect on the ability of Starkey Edge AI in speech in noise in this article when I receive a pair and try it myself.
Did you enjoy this article?
If you found this article useful please click on one of the social share buttons below and share it with a friend who may be looking for professional advice on hearing aids and hearing care. After all, sharing is caring. Thank you.
A good video about Starkey Edge AI by This Week in Hearing.
Comments