A hearing aid with Auracast has been judged so important that it has won the Red Dot Design Award.
The Oticon Zeal was released last autumn in Europe and earlier this year in the US.
The innovative in-the-ear design has turned heads ever since, not least for its small form factor.
Now it’s official: the Red Dot Design award recognises Oticon’s work in creating something with outstanding design quality, innovation, and excellence in product development.
Red Dot Design awards recognise the best in design and business, and winners are selected by expert juries with experience in product design, communication design, and design concepts.
They have been awarded in various forms since 1955, with the first Red Dot given in 1992.
The entry for the Oticon Zeal noted that its “newly developed encapsulated build integrates the components into a compact housing while offering high moisture resistance and durability. An antenna adapted to the shape of the ear ensures a secure fit and stable connectivity while also functioning as a pull cord for removing the device. AI-based sound processing and rechargeable battery technology support everyday use.”
The Zeal also includes Auracast as standard, and this can be controlled via the Oticon Companion app on a smartphone.
The jury said of the Oticon Zeal: “The consistent miniaturisation and innovative manufacturing of the Oticon Zeal hearing aid combine discreet integration with powerful functionality”.
The award, presented in April, has been welcomed by Oticon.
The company highlighted Zeal’s features, including advanced, second-generation AI-supported sound processing that continuously analyses and balances sound in real time.
Oticon says that by supporting the way the brain naturally makes sense of sound, Oticon Zeal helps users stay engaged, follow conversations, and remain connected, even in complex, noisy listening environments.
The company says the AI technology is always on, supporting users seamlessly throughout the day without requiring continuous adjustments.
Dorthe Krogh Jensen, Vice President Brand Management, said: “With Oticon Zeal, we have created an entirely new hearing aid category. A true game-changer in the industry.
“For the first time, we have successfully integrated our proven technology and full functionality into a discreet, in-the-ear design. We are proud to receive this Red Dot recognition, which confirms Oticon Zeal as a true design achievement. It is also a barrier-breaking solution, removing the compromise between discreet design and high performance.
“By reducing stigma, Oticon Zeal shows how thoughtful, human-centred design and intelligent, AI-driven technology can come together to deliver life-changing hearing care that fits naturally into everyday life.”
Aurahear in your inbox!
Leave a comment