Sonova Unveils New AI-Powered Hearing Aid
Sonova launched its third hearing-aid platform using real-time artificial intelligence on Monday, as the Swiss company seeks to strengthen its position in a market driven by rapid technological upgrades and shorter replacement cycles.
The company was the first to introduce a hearing aid using real-time AI to separate speech from background noise in 2024. Its latest platform, Phonak EON, is designed to build on that technology while offering a smaller and lighter device.
Anders Rosengren, Sonova’s head of research and development, said the new platform features advanced AI that makes speech twice as understandable while reducing the listening effort required from users. The company expects the technology to appeal to both existing hearing-aid users seeking replacements and first-time customers.
The EON platform is expected to play an important role in Sonova’s efforts to achieve its medium-term growth targets, which faced investor skepticism in March. Oliver Lux, president of Sonova’s EMEA and Latin America regions, said the company expects adoption of the new platform to build quickly among replacement and new customers.
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Sonova did not disclose pricing details but said EON was developed to support its premium market positioning at launch. The platform was launched in the United States on Monday, with Australia and major European markets, including Germany, France, Italy and Britain, scheduled to receive it in mid-September. A broader global rollout will follow.
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Lux said Sonova continues to see positive market dynamics across its key markets, particularly in Asia-Pacific and Latin America. These regions are becoming increasingly important as the company seeks to expand volumes and strengthen its presence in faster-growing markets supported by ageing populations.
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Under CEO Eric Bernard, who took office last September, Sonova has increasingly identified Asia-Pacific as a key growth region. The company aims to benefit from rising demand for hearing-care solutions while expanding its customer base and reinforcing its competitive position through technology-led product development.