Audiology

Earbuds are the most widely known hearable. These devices are associated with listening to music, especially on the go. Because the wearer is hands-free, earbuds are popular with joggers as well as commuters. Hearables can serve as miniature in-the-ear headphones, but they are much more than that.

Hearables are wireless devices that use AI and Bluetooth to connect you to other devices. Some hearables are designed to serve as fitness trackers. They not only track your steps and pace but also your heart rate. As this technology improves, it could monitor your health and connect you to your physician.

Other hearables serve as translators. This hearable is designed for over-the-ear wear. They serve as personal interpreters, picking up the voice of the person with whom you’re speaking and translating his or her words into English for you. All of the translation happens in real time. Imagine not having to thumb through a phrase book or carry a translation device in your pocket! You’ll be able to maintain eye contact and engage in more natural communication.

Hearables are not hearing aids, which amplify sound to compensate for hearing loss. Instead, hearables are intended to provide a high-quality sound, often by cancelling out background noise.

There is speculation that the future of hearables could merge with hearing aids. As this new technology develops, keep your ears tuned to Dr. Colby’s office for the most recent information. We’ll help you sort out fact from fiction in what hearables can and cannot do for your hearing.