An estimated 20% of the world has some degree of hearing loss, and hearing technology company Jacoti is now giving many of those suffering a powerful new tool to help overcome the disability. The company is releasing the first standalone software hearing aid to gain CE Mark approval, the Jacoti ListenApp. The user runs the app on the iPod Touch or iPhone, and uses the standard Apple EarPods with the built-in microphone to hear and amplify outside sounds. The software applies a frequency dependent gain based on certain settings and the individual’s audiogram, and softer inputs are amplified more than louder ones. It is also equipped with noise reduction technology for more comfortable plane rides.
The main screen allows users to control the volume and easily switch between music and microphone modes. ListenApp has three settings when in microphone mode: Natural Sound, Clear Speech, and Comfort. The Natural Sound setting does not assume any specific listening situation and naturally amplifies sound, while Clear Speech has been optimized for speech, and the Comfort mode provides lower amplification levels to help reduce fatigue. Jacoti ListenApp is free, which will be music to any user’s ears.
Product Page: Jacoti…
Press release: The world’s first CE approved medical device standalone software hearing aid.