In a world where sound is both a melody and a lifeline, Artificial Intelligence (AI) emerges as the virtuoso, reshaping the entire audio tech landscape. According to WHO estimates, over 430 million individuals grapple with hearing loss. The annual economic burden on the health sector due to unaddressed hearing loss is estimated to surpass $100 billion, according to a report by EClinicalMedicine. When factoring in the additional cost attributed to lost productivity, the total reaches a staggering $750-790 billion annually. Policymakers are rightly directing their efforts towards cost-effective interventions in hearing healthcare to alleviate this substantial disease-related burden. As we navigate through the crescendo of data and technical prowess, it becomes evident that AI is not to just augment audio gadgets; it's to craft a new symphony where personalisation, accessibility, and innovation converge in an extraordinary auditory experience. Piyush Jalan, Co-founder &amp; COO of GOVO, sheds light on the transformative role of AI in the development of audio gadgets, particularly in the realm of hearing aids.

Unveiling AI's crescendo in audio gadgets

The audio tech industry is undergoing a metamorphosis, and at the heart of this evolution is the omnipresent force of AI. Piyush Jalan paints a vivid picture of this paradigm shift. AI algorithms, fuelled by data availability and computational power explosion, enhance and revolutionise audio gadgets. They have transcended the realm of mere tools, becoming intuitive companions that adapt to individual preferences and the intricacies of diverse environments.

AI orchestrates a symphony of personalised soundscapes. The ability to process vast volumes of data, distinguish patterns in unstructured audio, video, and text, and employ techniques like Deep Learning (DL) marks a pinnacle in audio innovation. The audiology landscape, too, is touched by this transformative power, as AI-driven hearing aids intelligently distinguish between various sounds, dynamically adjust to users' auditory environments, and continuously learn to enhance hearing ability.

AI's role in crafting a unique auditory experience

Gone are the days when hearing aids were mere amplifiers. AI, the avant-garde of this revolution, steps into the spotlight. It's not just about amplifying sound; it's about pre-processing signals to help our brains understand and distinguish the sounds that matter.

However, every virtuoso needs training; for AI, this comes in the form of a rich library of curated data. AI-driven hearing aids deliver more sound to the brain If we expose AI systems to diverse sound combinations.

AI-driven hearing devices with powerful onboard processors automatically adjust settings according to the user's current environment. Ohio State University's study showcasing a 55% improvement in hearing amid background noise with AI-driven hearing aids echoes the adaptability and efficiency AI brings to the auditory landscape.

Fusion of style &amp; substance

Hearing aids, once clunky add-ons, are metamorphosing into stylish devices that resemble the latest Bluetooth earbuds. Piyush Jalan points out that the future promises enhanced auditory experiences and a fusion of functionality and fashion.

Yet, as AI conducts this symphony of innovation, challenges persist. The quality and quantity of data used to train AI algorithms dictate their performance, raising concerns about data privacy and security. The human brain's intricate capability to fully emulate sound processing remains a frontier yet to be fully conquered.

A harmonious future awaits

In this era where AI is seamlessly woven into the fabric of our lives, it's not just about predicting outcomes or selecting the next Netflix binge series. It's about crafting a symphony where AI and audio technology converge, enriching human experiences. As AI continues to evolve, the future promises a harmonious blend of innovation, accessibility, and personalised audio experiences—truly a symphony for the senses.

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In a world where sound is both a melody and a lifeline, Artificial Intelligence (AI) emerges as the virtuoso, reshaping the entire audio tech landscape. According to WHO estimates, over 430 million individuals grapple with hearing loss.

In a world where sound is both a melody and a lifeline, Artificial Intelligence (AI) emerges as the virtuoso, reshaping the entire audio tech landscape. According to WHO estimates, over 430 million individuals grapple with hearing loss. The annual economic burden on the health sector due to unaddressed hearing loss is estimated to surpass $100 billion, according to a report by EClinicalMedicine. When factoring in the additional cost attributed to lost productivity, the total reaches a staggering $750-790 billion annually. Policymakers are rightly directing their efforts towards cost-effective interventions in hearing healthcare to alleviate this substantial disease-related burden. As we navigate through the crescendo of data and technical prowess, it becomes evident that AI is not to just augment audio gadgets; it's to craft a new symphony where personalisation, accessibility, and innovation converge in an extraordinary auditory experience. Piyush Jalan, Co-founder & COO of GOVO, sheds light on the transformative role of AI in the development of audio gadgets, particularly in the realm of hearing aids. Unveiling AI's crescendo in audio gadgets The audio tech industry is undergoing a metamorphosis, and at the heart of this evolution is the omnipresent force of AI. Piyush Jalan paints a vivid picture of this paradigm shift. AI algorithms, fuelled by data availability and computational power explosion, enhance and revolutionise audio gadgets. They have transcended the realm of mere tools, becoming intuitive companions that adapt to individual preferences and the intricacies of diverse environments. AI orchestrates a symphony of personalised soundscapes. The ability to process vast volumes of data, distinguish patterns in unstructured audio, video, and text, and employ techniques like Deep Learning (DL) marks a pinnacle in audio innovation. The audiology landscape, too, is touched by this transformative power, as AI-driven hearing aids intelligently distinguish between various sounds, dynamically adjust to users' auditory environments, and continuously learn to enhance hearing ability. AI's role in crafting a unique auditory experience Gone are the days when hearing aids were mere amplifiers. AI, the avant-garde of this revolution, steps into the spotlight. It's not just about amplifying sound; it's about pre-processing signals to help our brains understand and distinguish the sounds that matter. However, every virtuoso needs training; for AI, this comes in the form of a rich library of curated data. AI-driven hearing aids deliver more sound to the brain If we expose AI systems to diverse sound combinations. AI-driven hearing devices with powerful onboard processors automatically adjust settings according to the user's current environment. Ohio State University's study showcasing a 55% improvement in hearing amid background noise with AI-driven hearing aids echoes the adaptability and efficiency AI brings to the auditory landscape. Fusion of style & substance Hearing aids, once clunky add-ons, are metamorphosing into stylish devices that resemble the latest Bluetooth earbuds. Piyush Jalan points out that the future promises enhanced auditory experiences and a fusion of functionality and fashion. Yet, as AI conducts this symphony of innovation, challenges persist. The quality and quantity of data used to train AI algorithms dictate their performance, raising concerns about data privacy and security. The human brain's intricate capability to fully emulate sound processing remains a frontier yet to be fully conquered. A harmonious future awaits In this era where AI is seamlessly woven into the fabric of our lives, it's not just about predicting outcomes or selecting the next Netflix binge series. It's about crafting a symphony where AI and audio technology converge, enriching human experiences. As AI continues to evolve, the future promises a harmonious blend of innovation, accessibility, and personalised audio experiences—truly a symphony for the senses. WATCH WION LIVE HERE

AI-Driven Hearing: A symphony of adaptability in noisy environments

Making basic healthcare facilities available to all, the US Food and Drug Administration on Tuesday announced it had signed the historic legislation that allows millions of Americans to buy hearing aids without any prescription, from over-the-counter.

Making basic healthcare facilities available to all, the US Food and Drug Administration on Tuesday announced it had signed the historic legislation that allows millions of Americans to buy hearing aids without any prescription, from over-the-counter. Up until now, the devices were not accessible if an individual did not have a medical subscription. Moreover, only a handful of retail stores sold the device, making accessibility a major issue. Reportedly, FDA changing the rules is expected to benefit nearly 30 million American adults. According to FDA, the finalised rules will reduce the red tapism in the industry. Moreover, it will allow a new class of hearing aids in the market which would not require any standard medical exam or a prescription from a doctor. “Today’s action by the FDA represents a significant milestone in making hearing aids more cost-effective and accessible,” Xavier Becerra, Health and Human Services Secretary was quoted as saying by AP. According to FDA estimates, of the 30 million Americans that need hearing devices, only 600,000 or one-fifth use the device, with the rest not willing to take the tedious doctor's prescription route. Not to forget, the devices are not cheap. A single pair of hearing aid and their fitting cost as much as $5,000 which puts a heavy dent in the patient's wallet and in most cases, is not covered under health insurance. Read More: After Juul e-cigarettes, Americans rally behind 'candy' flavoured disposable e-cigs FDA believes that the decentralisation of the process ought to bring the cost down as traditional manufacturers are expected to scale their operations. Experts predict that the hearing market, after the implementation of the new legislation, in a few years will resemble the eye care market where consumers are spoiled for choices and don't have to necessarily rely on prescriptions and medical exams. However, few caveats have been applied to make sure that patients do not come in harm's way. The new over-the-counter status won't apply to devices that are expected to be used by patients with severe hearing loss. Only a prescription will work in such cases. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Americans can buy hearing aids over-the-counter; FDA clears the way

It was a medical treatment that may change the course of a four-year-old Saudi Arabian boy's life. After undergoing a difficult treatment at King Khalid Hospital in Najran, Wajdi Al Nasi, who was born deaf and had never spoken, was able to hear for the first time.

Wajdi burst out laughing after hearing noises through an earpiece after a four-hour cochlear implant procedure.

It came after two years of inspections and examinations at the hospital's otolaryngology department to ensure his auditory nerve and cochlea were in good working order.

Wajdi's ecstatic father, Fadl Al-Hilali, said the family will now try to teach him how to talk after committing themselves to a life without distractions for him.

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Wajdi's father said that "the outcome of his procedure filled our hearts with joy... there is now a six-month treatment plan for his speech.At King Khalid Hospital in Najran, we have already begun language restoration under the supervision of speech therapists.The efforts made put an end to my child Wajdi's suffering from acute hearing loss in both ears,".

Last Monday, three weeks following the successful four-hour operation, external hearing aids were installed. If the procedure had failed, Wajdi would have been taken to Saudi Arabia's Institute of Deaf and Mutes where he would have received a certificate of impairment. Instead, his family is hoping that by the end of the year, he will be able to communicate with them and his buddies. 
&nbsp;

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It was a medical treatment that may change the course of a four-year-old Saudi Arabian boy's life. After undergoing a difficult treatment at King Khalid Hospital in Najran, Wajdi Al Nasi, who was born deaf and had never spoken, was able to hear for the first time.

It was a medical treatment that may change the course of a four-year-old Saudi Arabian boy's life. After undergoing a difficult treatment at King Khalid Hospital in Najran, Wajdi Al Nasi, who was born deaf and had never spoken, was able to hear for the first time. Wajdi burst out laughing after hearing noises through an earpiece after a four-hour cochlear implant procedure. It came after two years of inspections and examinations at the hospital's otolaryngology department to ensure his auditory nerve and cochlea were in good working order. Wajdi's ecstatic father, Fadl Al-Hilali, said the family will now try to teach him how to talk after committing themselves to a life without distractions for him. × Wajdi's father said that "the outcome of his procedure filled our hearts with joy... there is now a six-month treatment plan for his speech.At King Khalid Hospital in Najran, we have already begun language restoration under the supervision of speech therapists.The efforts made put an end to my child Wajdi's suffering from acute hearing loss in both ears,". Last Monday, three weeks following the successful four-hour operation, external hearing aids were installed. If the procedure had failed, Wajdi would have been taken to Saudi Arabia's Institute of Deaf and Mutes where he would have received a certificate of impairment. Instead, his family is hoping that by the end of the year, he will be able to communicate with them and his buddies. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Watch: After cochlear implant, Saudi boy hears for the first time

While the world is currently fighting the deadly coronavirus pandemic, which has claimed millions of lives, the World Health Organization (WHO) has issued a warning about another possible danger in the near future.

A report by the WHO suggests that by 2050 one in four of the world's population will suffer from hearing problems.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/modernas-coronavirus-vaccine-side-effects-are-severe-but-worth-it-cdc-study-367057" hreflang="en">Moderna's coronavirus vaccine side effects are severe, but worth it: CDC study</a>

The first-ever global report on hearing claims that causes of many of these problems, such as infections, diseases, birth defects, noise exposure and lifestyle choices can be prevented.&nbsp;

WHO has called for immediate and extra investment in prevention and treatment. As per the proposed package of measures in WHO's report, it would cost $1.33 per person per year.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/pfizer-coronavirus-vaccine-may-be-less-effective-in-obesity-study-367008" hreflang="en">Pfizer coronavirus vaccine may be less effective in obesity: Study</a>

"Failure to act will be costly in terms of the health and well-being of those affected, and the financial losses arising from their exclusion from communication, education and employment," the report said.

While right now there are one in five people who suffer from hearing problems, the number can increase to 2.5 billion soon, the report warned.

"The number of people with hearing loss may increase more than 1.5-fold during the next three decades" to 2.5 billion people, which was previously 1.6 billion in 2019.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/large-study-shows-pfizers-coronavirus-vaccine-94-effective-366057" hreflang="en">Large study shows Pfizer's coronavirus vaccine 94% effective</a>

Out of these 2.5 billion, nearly 700 million people would be suffering from serious hearing problems by 2050. The 700 million people may even require major treatment for the hearing condition, which would be a major increase from 430 million people in 2019.

One of the major reason behind this alarming increase is demographic and population trends, the report explained.

This issue has also been increasing due to lack of access to care, especially in the low-income countries — as nearly 80 per cent of people live in these countries — as the majority of them are not getting the required help.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/future-vaccines-depend-on-test-subjects-in-short-supply-monkeys-365739" hreflang="en">Future vaccines depend on test subjects in short supply: Monkeys</a>

The lack of accurate information and an increasing stigma around ear diseases and loss of hearing also contributes to the increasing number of people who are suffering from hearing problems.

"Even among health-care providers, knowledge relevant to prevention, early identification and management of hearing loss and ear diseases is commonly lacking," the report said.

The package of measures proposed by the WHO include public health initiatives such as reduction of noise in public spaces and an increase in vaccinations for diseases that can lead to hearing loss. It also proposed systematic screening to identify the problem.

"An estimated one trillion US dollars is lost each year due to our collective failure to adequately address hearing loss," WHO director-general Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus said. "While the financial burden is enormous, what cannot be quantified is the distress caused by the loss of communication, education and social interaction that accompanies unaddressed hearing loss."

While the world is currently fighting the deadly coronavirus pandemic, which has claimed millions of lives, the World Health Organization (WHO) has issued a warning about another possible danger in the near future.

While the world is currently fighting the deadly coronavirus pandemic, which has claimed millions of lives, the World Health Organization (WHO) has issued a warning about another possible danger in the near future. A report by the WHO suggests that by 2050 one in four of the world's population will suffer from hearing problems. Also read | Moderna's coronavirus vaccine side effects are severe, but worth it: CDC study The first-ever global report on hearing claims that causes of many of these problems, such as infections, diseases, birth defects, noise exposure and lifestyle choices can be prevented. WHO has called for immediate and extra investment in prevention and treatment. As per the proposed package of measures in WHO's report, it would cost $1.33 per person per year. Also read | Pfizer coronavirus vaccine may be less effective in obesity: Study "Failure to act will be costly in terms of the health and well-being of those affected, and the financial losses arising from their exclusion from communication, education and employment," the report said. While right now there are one in five people who suffer from hearing problems, the number can increase to 2.5 billion soon, the report warned. "The number of people with hearing loss may increase more than 1.5-fold during the next three decades" to 2.5 billion people, which was previously 1.6 billion in 2019. Also read | Large study shows Pfizer's coronavirus vaccine 94% effective Out of these 2.5 billion, nearly 700 million people would be suffering from serious hearing problems by 2050. The 700 million people may even require major treatment for the hearing condition, which would be a major increase from 430 million people in 2019. One of the major reason behind this alarming increase is demographic and population trends, the report explained. This issue has also been increasing due to lack of access to care, especially in the low-income countries — as nearly 80 per cent of people live in these countries — as the majority of them are not getting the required help. Also read | Future vaccines depend on test subjects in short supply: Monkeys The lack of accurate information and an increasing stigma around ear diseases and loss of hearing also contributes to the increasing number of people who are suffering from hearing problems. "Even among health-care providers, knowledge relevant to prevention, early identification and management of hearing loss and ear diseases is commonly lacking," the report said. The package of measures proposed by the WHO include public health initiatives such as reduction of noise in public spaces and an increase in vaccinations for diseases that can lead to hearing loss. It also proposed systematic screening to identify the problem. "An estimated one trillion US dollars is lost each year due to our collective failure to adequately address hearing loss," WHO director-general Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus said. "While the financial burden is enormous, what cannot be quantified is the distress caused by the loss of communication, education and social interaction that accompanies unaddressed hearing loss."

Louder please? 1 in 4 people will have hearing problems by 2050, WHO warns

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