Oticon Intent vs. Oticon Real: Understanding the Difference

At Hearing Consultants in Cincinnati, OH, we pride ourselves on offering the latest and most advanced hearing aids to our patients. With esteemed audiologists Dr. Tim Teague and Dr. Amanda Hoffman at the helm, we are dedicated to providing best practice hearing care. Today, we’re excited to delve into two of Oticon’s latest models: the Oticon Intent and the Oticon Real. Understanding the differences between these two models can help you make an informed decision about which hearing aid best suits your needs.

Introducing the Oticon Intent

Launched in February 2024, the Oticon Intent is the newest addition to Oticon’s lineup, featuring several groundbreaking advancements.

Advanced AI Technology: The Intent is powered by the new Sirius chip, which enhances the device’s ability to provide clearer speech in noisy environments through its Deep Neural Network (DNN) 2.0 technology. This AI-driven system processes sound more like the human brain, enabling better access to speech in challenging settings.

4D Sensor Technology: One of the standout features of the Oticon Intent is its 4D Sensor technology. This innovation adapts the hearing aid settings based on conversational activity, head and body movement, and environmental noise, providing a dynamic listening experience tailored to the user’s needs.

MoreSound Intelligence 3.0: This technology offers up to 12-decibel noise suppression, significantly improving your ability to engage in conversations in noisy environments. Oticon claims that these features can result in accessing 35% more speech cues, enhancing conversation quality.

Enhanced Connectivity: The Intent introduces Bluetooth LE and Auracast-ready technology, ensuring future-proof connectivity. It also supports hands-free calling and streaming via iOS and compatible Android devices.

Rechargeability: With a full charge providing up to 20 hours of use, the Oticon Intent ensures you’re never caught without your hearing aids. A quick 15-minute charge can give you four hours of usage, perfect for those on the go.

Exploring the Oticon Real

Released in February 2023, the Oticon Real continues to build on the success of its predecessors, such as the Oticon More.

Deep Neural Network (DNN): Like the Intent, the Oticon Real utilizes Oticon’s Deep Neural Network technology to process sound in a way that mimics the human brain. This results in clearer speech and a more natural listening experience.

More Sound Intelligence 2.0: This feature scans your sound environment 500 times per second, organizing and delivering sound based on its AI-driven training. The Real’s system highlights important sounds while minimizing unwanted noise, making it easier to follow conversations in complex listening environments.

Wind and Handling Stabilizer: A key advancement in the Oticon Real is the wind and handling stabilizer, which reduces noise caused by wind and handling. This feature ensures better speech clarity even in windy conditions or when the hearing aid is touched.

Sudden Sound Stabilizer: The Real also includes the Sudden Sound Stabilizer, which manages loud, sudden sounds to ensure they are audible but not uncomfortable. This helps maintain speech audibility while reducing listening effort in noisy environments.

Rechargeability and Battery Options: The Oticon Real offers both rechargeable and non-rechargeable models. The rechargeable versions provide a full day of use with a three-hour charge, while the non-rechargeable models use size 312 batteries, which last just under a week.

Comparing the Oticon Intent and Oticon Real

While both the Oticon Intent and Oticon Real offer advanced features and impressive performance, there are some key differences to consider:

Technological Advancements: The Intent introduces new technologies like the 4D Sensor and MoreSound Intelligence 3.0, offering more dynamic and adaptive sound processing. The Real focuses on practical improvements such as wind and handling noise reduction and the Sudden Sound Stabilizer, which enhance the day-to-day listening experience.

Design and Models: The Real is available in four models: miniRITE R, miniRITE T, miniBTE R, and miniBTE T. These models offer both rechargeable and disposable battery options, giving users flexibility. The Intent, while emphasizing its sleek and compact design, focuses more on rechargeable options.

User Experience: Both models aim to provide a natural and comfortable listening experience. However, the Intent’s 4D Sensor technology might offer a more tailored experience by adapting to your movements and environment. The Real’s enhancements like the wind and handling stabilizer ensure a smoother experience in various conditions.

Price and Accessibility: The advanced features in the Intent come at a higher cost compared to the Real. Depending on your budget and specific needs, one model might be more suitable than the other.

Why the Right Fit Matters

At Hearing Consultants, we understand that choosing the right hearing aid is just the first step. Proper fitting and programming are crucial to ensure you receive the full benefits of your device. Here’s why our expertise makes a difference:

Personalized Fitting: Each patient’s ear shape and hearing loss are unique. We take precise measurements and use advanced fitting techniques to ensure your hearing aids fit comfortably and securely.

Customized Programming: Our audiologists, Dr. Tim Teague and Dr. Amanda Hoffman, use their extensive knowledge to fine-tune your hearing aids, ensuring optimal performance in various environments.

Ongoing Support: We provide continuous care and support. After your initial fitting, we offer follow-up appointments to make any necessary adjustments and address any concerns you may have. This ongoing support ensures that your hearing aids continue to meet your needs over time.

Schedule Your Appointment Today

If you’re interested in exploring the benefits of the Oticon Intent or Oticon Real, we invite you to schedule an appointment with us at Hearing Consultants in Cincinnati. Our friendly and experienced audiologists are here to guide you through the process, from selecting the right hearing aid model to ensuring a perfect fit and optimal performance. At Hearing Consultants, we fit hearing aids from all major brands, ensuring that you receive the best device for your unique situation.

Don’t miss out on the opportunity to improve your hearing and enhance your quality of life. Contact us today to schedule your consultation and experience the difference that expert care and advanced technology can make.