Oticon launched two new hearing aids this week: the Verit and the Play SI. The latter is specifically aimed at tweens and teenagers to fit around their lifestyle, including Auracast as standard.
The company describes the new hearing aid as the only paediatric hearing aid family with second-generation AI-powered sound processing, 4D user intent sensors, and next-generation connectivity. This means it can cope with complex situations such as classrooms and playgrounds where there can be a lot of noise happening simultaneously.
While strides have been made toward hearing a teacher, through the use of microphone systems that work similarly to Auracast, ambient sound and classroom discussions still matter.
The Oticon Play SI aims to help with this.
Advanced sound processing and 4D technology
Oticon says that the Play SI features its second-generation AI sound processing, trained on millions of sound scenes to help children access clearer, more natural sound in every moment.
The advanced noise suppression reaches 12dB, so the Oticon Play SI can deliver a broader range of sounds, with a frequency bandwidth from 80Hz to 10,000Hz.
The 4D user-intent sensors will act on what the child is hearing in real time, adapting accordingly. A study by the Boys Town National Research Hospital shows that when activated in those aged between 12 and 18, it can improve sentence recognition by 50%, and reduce listening difficulty by 77%.
Auracast to meet the demands of the next generation
Oticon launched Auracast alongside the Zeal and the Intent range last autumn. We covered it here.
The company is continuing to support the new technology by including it in the Play SI … and it’s by popular demand. A study by Gordey & Preszcator (2025) found that 83% of tweens and teens prefer our Bluetooth LE Audio connectivity over Bluetooth Classic.
Also included in its connectivity is the new Google Fast Pair protocol, which allows users to pair the hearing aid to a Google account – once the initial pairing is complete, the settings can then be used on other devices where the account has been activated. This will make it much easier to connect the hearing aids to devices.
The Play SI also has Made For iPhone connectivity, and can be used for hands-free calls.
Within the classroom, it is also compatible with an EduMic system.
Another hi-tech aspect that suits modern life is its battery life: an hour’s charge gives a full day, while four hours takes just 15 minutes, and eight hours in 30 minutes.
A range of colours
There are 12 different colours available, as well as stickers, making it possible to pick something that suits the child’s personality.
It also has an IP68-rating for water and dust protection and it is made with allergen-free materials.
What they say about the Oticon Play SI
David Gordey, Director of Paediatric Audiology and Research at Oticon, is delighted with the launch of the new hearing aid, and what it will mean for younger people.
“Oticon Play SI doesn’t just improve access to sound; it supports critical developmental milestones,” he said.
“For children, hearing is the foundation for language, learning, and social interaction. When they can hear clearly in complex environments, they’re better able to build vocabulary, follow classroom discussions, and engage confidently with peers.
“For teens and young adults, streaming is equally important.
“It allows them to stay connected socially, enjoy music, and access educational content without barriers. Oticon Play SI helps ensure children and teens can thrive in every aspect of life.”
For more details, on the Oticon Play SI, log on to: https://www.oticon.global/products/hearing-aids/family/play-si
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