Starkey Edge AI: Dr. Cliff's Review

As a Doctor of Audiology and founder of Applied Hearing Solutions in Phoenix, Arizona, I've tested countless hearing aids throughout my career. Before establishing the HearingUp Provider Network, I served in the United States Marine Corps—an experience that taught me the value of precision and attention to detail, skills I now apply to hearing healthcare.

Today, I'm excited to share my review of Starkey's newest release—the Edge AI hearing aid. Coming just one year after their Genesis AI platform, Starkey has made significant advancements in hearing technology with this latest offering. The Edge AI stands out with two major innovations: Bluetooth LE Audio with Auracast capabilities and the integration of a Deep Neural Network for superior speech processing. After thorough testing, I'm convinced this is Starkey's most impressive hearing aid to date, and I'm eager to explain why.

Technology Highlights

The Edge AI represents a significant leap forward in Starkey's hearing aid technology. With the integration of their G2 neuro processor featuring 6x more transistors, 10x more memory, and 4x faster processing than previous generations, these hearing aids can make up to 80 million hearing adjustments per hour. This processing power enables the Edge AI to analyze and adapt to your acoustic environment in real-time, delivering unprecedented speech clarity while maintaining awareness of your surroundings. Let's examine the key technological innovations that set this platform apart.

Deep Neural Network

The Edge AI joins an exclusive club alongside Oticon and Phonak as one of the few hearing aids utilizing Deep Neural Network technology. This advancement is powered by Starkey's new G2 neuro processor which includes a dedicated Neural Processing Unit (NPU).

What makes this technology special? The Deep Neural Network can identify the characteristics that differentiate speech from background noise with remarkable precision. This allows the Edge AI to achieve an impressive 10-13 decibel signal-to-noise ratio improvement in challenging environments when using Edge Mode Plus—a substantial advancement for hearing in noisy settings.

Edge Mode Plus

This standout feature is easily activated through the My Starkey app. When engaged, Edge Mode Plus analyzes your environment and allows you to select between three listening intents:

• Best Sound
• Enhance Speech
• Reduce Noise

While the standard settings provide a respectable 5-7 decibel signal-to-noise ratio improvement, Edge Mode Plus takes this to an entirely new level. Testing has shown significant word recognition improvement with reduced listening effort when using the Enhanced Speech setting.

Models and Options

The Starkey Edge AI comes in three technology levels:

• Level 24 (Premium)
• Level 20
• Level 16

Available styles include:

• Receiver-in-canal models:
  
  • Edge AI RIC 312 (disposable batteries)
  • mRIC-R (smaller rechargeable version)
  • RIC RT (larger rechargeable with telecoil)
• Custom models:
  
  • Completely-in-canal wireless with disposable battery
  • Rechargeable custom half-shell
  • Rechargeable full-shell

These options accommodate hearing losses ranging from mild to profound, particularly when paired with custom-encased ear molds and ultra power receivers.

Design and Durability

The Edge AI maintains the successful design aesthetic introduced with the Genesis AI line. The receiver wires are noticeably thinner and more pliable than previous generations, improving comfort and discretion. Available in seven color options, the hearing aids can be matched to hair color, skin tone, or personal preference.

Durability is a standout feature with Starkey's Pro 8 Hydro Shield technology, which provides eight protective layers against moisture and debris. This gives the Edge AI an IP68+ rating—one of the highest in the industry for resistance to environmental factors.

Battery Life and Charging

One of the most frustrating experiences for hearing aid users is running out of battery power during important moments. Starkey has addressed this concern head-on with the Edge AI's remarkable lithium-ion battery technology. These hearing aids offer some of the longest-lasting rechargeable batteries in the industry, giving users confidence to engage in their daily activities without constantly worrying about power levels. The charging system is equally impressive, designed with accessibility and convenience in mind.

The Edge AI sets a new standard for battery longevity:

• RIC RT model: Up to 51 hours (44 hours with streaming)
• mRIC-R model: Up to 41 hours (33 hours with streaming)

These impressive figures mean users can confidently wear their hearing aids all day without concern about running out of power—a crucial feature for people who rely on their devices for important meetings or social gatherings.

Two charger options are available:

1. Starlink Charger 2.0 (basic version)
2. Premium version with internal power bank for charging on-the-go

Both feature magnetic attachments that secure the hearing aids in place and accommodate custom ear molds. The chargers are designed with accessibility in mind, making them easy to open and close for users with dexterity challenges.

Connectivity Features

The Edge AI incorporates Bluetooth 5.3, enabling LE Audio and Auracast compatibility:

• Made for iPhone connectivity
• ASHA protocol for Android devices
• LE Audio support for compatible devices
• Auracast readiness for future broadcast audio applications

Auracast technology will allow users to receive audio broadcasts directly to their hearing aids in venues like museums, churches, theaters, and sports bars (when equipped with Auracast transmitters). Starkey has also developed the Starlink Edge TV streamer that uses Auracast to stream television audio directly to the hearing aids.

My Starkey App

The My Starkey app provides comprehensive control options:

• Program switching
• Volume adjustments
• TeleHear remote care sessions
• Self-check diagnostics
• Find My Hearing Aid tracking
• Language translation
• Transcription of spoken words to text
• Fall detection alerts
• New balance assessment feature

The balance assessment is based on the CDC's STEADI protocol (Stopping Elderly Accidents, Deaths, and Injuries) and utilizes the motion sensors in the hearing aids to evaluate standing and sitting exercises. The app provides feedback and suggests exercises to improve balance—a valuable feature considering individuals with hearing loss have a 2.5 times higher risk of falling.

Apple Watch compatibility allows for convenient adjustments directly from your wrist.

Additional Performance Enhancements

The Edge AI offers several technical improvements:

• Increased input dynamic range (from 108dB to 118dB)—ideal for live music enthusiasts
• Reduced circuit noise by an additional 10dB for a cleaner listening experience
• Improved expansion feature providing up to 6dB reduction in low-level background noises
• Enhanced feedback management system

The Importance of Proper Fitting

It's worth emphasizing that even the most advanced hearing technology requires proper fitting and programming to deliver optimal results. The Edge AI performs significantly better when programmed using Real Ear Measurement (REM) compared to initial factory settings.

Finding a hearing care professional who follows comprehensive best practices—including speech-in-noise testing, test box measures, Real Ear Measurement, and validated outcome measures—is essential to achieving the maximum benefit from these advanced devices.

Experience the Difference with HearingUp

Ready to experience the Starkey Edge AI for yourself? Connect with a HearingUp network provider who has been personally vetted and is committed to following comprehensive audiologic best practices.

Our network members will ensure your hearing aids are properly fitted and programmed to achieve your absolute best hearing potential. With the right professional guidance and this cutting-edge technology, you can enjoy improved speech understanding, reduced listening effort, and all the additional features that make the Edge AI one of the most impressive hearing aids on the market today.

Find a HearingUp Provider Near You