As a Doctor of Audiology in Tampa, FL, I’ve worn and tested a variety of hearing aids throughout my life and career. Before becoming an audiologist, I was a long time hearing aid user so I have the perspective of both user and programmer.
Today I am delighted to share some details on Starkey’s Omega AI hearing aid. Stay tuned for an updated review from an audiologist and hearing aid user for over 40 years.
Starkey Omega AI Pros
Starkey Omega AI Cons
Health Monitoring
Omega AI introduces the industry’s first automatic respiratory rate monitor, which uses built-in motion sensors to track resting breaths per minute in the background without impacting battery performance.
As a vestibular specialist, there are two features that stand out to me that you cannot find in any other hearing aid. The first is the fall detection, which can alert caregivers if a fall is detected. The second is the Balance Builder, which offers guided at-home exercises to help improve stability and coordination.
Waterproof Protection
The rechargeable RIC RT and mRIC R models are built to handle real-life moisture challenges, with waterproofing that protects them even when submerged up to a meter. Their advanced coating is engineered to last significantly longer than earlier versions, up to ten times more durable. Whether you’re working out, caught in the rain, in a humid climate (I’m looking at you Florida), or accidentally wear them into the shower, these hearing aids are designed to keep performing.
Omega AI DNN 360
Omega AI features DNN 360, the world’s first deep neural network-powered directionality system, delivering truly all-around hearing.
With Omega AI, your hearing adapts as life happens. It intuitively recognizes speech, background noise, and even motion, adjusting in real time to keep you connected and confident.
In the most challenging listening environments, Omega AI automatically applies the optimal directionality patterns—without sacrificing spatial awareness—so patients experience clarity and comfort wherever they go.
Bluetooth Technology
Starkey Omega AI comes with two way audio. With Two-Way Audio, listeners can take hands-free phone calls directly through the hearing aids, with no need to hold a phone or wear additional accessories. This feature uses the hearing aid’s built-in microphones to pick up the user’s voice clearly, while streaming the caller’s voice in high-quality sound. From my experiences with the Starkey Edge AI, their two way audio works well and listeners have little trouble hearing me.
I’ve had limited success with sound quality listening to music through hearing aids, but I’m looking forward to testing this out with the Starkey Omega AI. The audio tends to drop out and sound quality is marginal.
Final Thoughts, For Now
Starkey has introduced some interesting features in the Omega AI. I look forward to testing out those features and giving you my thoughts. The previous Edge AI model provided me with the best speech in noise performance, and I anticipate similar performance from the Omega AI.
Dr. Jon Douglas specializes in tinnitus, hyperacusis & misophonia management, hearing aid technology, and vestibular evaluations. With over 19 years of academic and clinical experience, Dr. Douglas is deeply committed to providing evidence-based audiological care that improves the lives of patients affected by hearing, balance, and sound sensitivity disorders.