At Harley Street Hearing, we keep a close eye on the latest hearing technology so that we can provide our patients with the very best solutions. One of the most talked-about launches has been Phonak’s Audeo Sphere Infinio hearing aids.
They promise cutting-edge technology, particularly when it comes to hearing speech in noisy environments – but as with any product, there are pros and cons to consider before making a decision.
In this article, we’ll explore the top five reasons to consider the Audeo Sphere Infinio, as well as five potential drawbacks that you should be aware of.
5 Reasons to Choose Phonak Audeo Sphere Infinio
Groundbreaking DeepSonic Chip
Phonak has introduced the DeepSonic chip, designed to separate speech from background noise using artificial intelligence.
- Trained on 22 million sound samples
- Capable of 7.7 billion operations per second
- Offers up to a 10dB improvement in signal-to-noise ratio
- Enhances speech understanding in noisy settings by up to 36.7%
Independent testing by HearAdvisor confirms that this chip delivers exceptional performance compared with other manufacturers.
Improved AutoSense 6.0
Phonak’s AutoSense technology has been upgraded from version 5 to version 6. This system constantly analyses your listening environment and adjusts automatically.
- Recognises seven key listening situations
- Optimises clarity and comfort in real time
- Claims of 16% better speech understanding and 45% reduced listening effort
This makes it easier to focus on conversations without relying heavily on lip reading or visual cues.
Industry-Leading Connectivity
Phonak continues to stand out for its connectivity features:
- Uses classic Bluetooth for universal compatibility (smartphones, tablets, computers)
- Supports dual streaming (connect to two devices at once)
- Improved transmission power for more stable connections
- Hands-free calling using the hearing aid microphones
- Auracast-ready (future-proofed for new broadcast audio technology)
Versatility for Different Hearing Loss Levels
The Audeo Sphere Infinio is suitable for mild through to profound hearing loss. It also supports Phonak’s innovative ActiveVent receivers, which can open or close depending on the environment:
- Open for natural sound in quiet settings
- Closed for better clarity in noisy environments
- Closed during streaming for richer, fuller music
Robustness and Durability
Phonak has strengthened the build quality of the Sphere range, reducing breakdowns and making them more resilient. For patients who need reliability in everyday life, this is a big step forward.
Summary of Benefits
The Phonak Audeo Sphere Infinio stands out for five main strengths. Its DeepSonic chip uses advanced AI to separate speech from background noise, delivering up to a 36.7% improvement in speech understanding.
The upgraded AutoSense 6.0 adapts automatically to seven different listening environments, improving clarity and reducing listening effort. In terms of connectivity, it offers universal Bluetooth compatibility, dual streaming, hands-free calls, and future-proof Auracast readiness.
The hearing aids are also highly versatile, supporting all levels of hearing loss and featuring ActiveVent receivers that adapt to different environments. Finally, their enhanced robustness and durability mean fewer breakdowns and greater reliability for everyday use.
Graph of Fitting Range for Interchangeable Hearing Aid Receivers
5 Drawbacks to Consider
Size
They are not the smallest hearing aids available. Some competitors offer more discreet models, though often at the cost of important features such as Bluetooth connectivity and rechargeability.
No Disposable Battery Option (Yet)
Currently, the Infinio is only available as a rechargeable model. For patients who prefer disposable batteries, this may be an issue.
Battery Life Under Heavy Use
For most users, battery life will last a full day. However, in very noisy environments where advanced AI features are working constantly, the battery could drain faster.
Missing Features: No Telecoil or CROS Compatibility
- No telecoil, which may affect those who regularly use loop systems.
- No CROS option for patients with single-sided deafness (though other Phonak models offer this).
Bluetooth: A Blessing and a Curse
While classic Bluetooth is a strength, the hands-free calling feature can sometimes struggle in noisy places. Callers on the other end may find it hard to hear you. Apple users can improve this with voice isolation mode, but it may not be ideal for everyone.
Summary of Drawbacks
While the Phonak Audeo Sphere Infinio offers impressive technology, there are some limitations to consider. They are slightly larger than some competing models, and currently only available as rechargeable, with no disposable battery option.
Battery life generally lasts a full day but may drain faster in consistently noisy environments. The aids also lack a telecoil and CROS compatibility, which could be an issue for some users.
Finally, although Bluetooth connectivity is a strength, the hands-free calling feature can struggle in noisy places, meaning callers may not always hear you clearly.
Phonak Audeo Sphere Infinio: Pros vs Cons at a Glance
Pros
- DeepSonic chip: AI-powered clarity in noisy environments (up to 36.7% better speech understanding).
- AutoSense 6.0: Automatically adapts to seven listening situations, reducing effort and improving comfort.
- Connectivity leader: Universal Bluetooth, dual streaming, hands-free calling, and Auracast readiness.
- Versatile fit: Suitable for mild to profound hearing loss with adaptive ActiveVent receivers.
- Durable design: Strengthened build for fewer breakdowns and greater reliability.
Cons
- Size: Not the smallest hearing aids available.
- Rechargeable only: No disposable battery option at present.
- Battery life: May shorten under heavy use in noisy environments.
- Missing features: No telecoil or CROS compatibility.
- Bluetooth calls: Hands-free function can struggle in noisy places.
Our Expert Audiologist’s Opinion
The Phonak Audeo Sphere Infinio represents a significant leap forward in hearing aid technology. The DeepSonic chip, AutoSense 6.0, and advanced connectivity set it apart from many competitors.
However, factors such as battery life, the lack of a telecoil, and its size may influence whether this is the right hearing aid for you.
At Harley Street Hearing, we believe that hearing aids should be chosen based on your individual lifestyle, preferences, and type of hearing loss. The Infinio may be an excellent option for many patients – but it’s not a one-size-fits-all solution.
Book a Hearing Aid Consultation
If you’d like to find out whether the Phonak Audeo Sphere Infinio is right for you, book an appointment with our audiology team today. We’ll guide you through the latest options and help you find the best hearing aid for your needs.
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