In 2016, the world witnessed several significant events. Sadly, music icon David Bowie passed away, leaving fans mourning worldwide. The United Kingdom voted to leave the European Union in the Brexit referendum, causing global economic uncertainty. On a brighter note, people across the nation celebrated when the Chicago Cubs won their first World Series in 108 years, breaking the longest championship drought in North American sports history.
Amidst these events, Oticon launched its groundbreaking Opn hearing aid, a device that revolutionized hearing technology at the time. Although no longer in production, many individuals still rely on the Oticon Opn for their daily hearing needs. At our clinic, we continue to support users of this model, along with wearers of all hearing aid brands and models.
What Was Special About the Oticon Opn?
The Oticon Opn made waves in 2016 with its sleek, discreet design and advanced features. This behind-the-ear device introduced a new era of open sound experience, aiming to provide users with a more natural hearing environment.
One of the Opn’s standout features was its OpenSound Navigator technology. This system rapidly analyzed the soundscape, balancing and cleaning all sounds to provide a clear, full sound picture. While groundbreaking at the time, today’s hearing aids offer even more sophisticated sound processing algorithms that provide clearer sound in complex environments.
The Opn also boasted BrainHearing technology, designed to support the brain’s natural ability to make sense of sound. This feature aimed to reduce listening effort and improve speech understanding, even in noisy environments. However, newer models now incorporate advanced machine learning capabilities that adapt even more precisely to individual listening preferences and habits.
Connectivity was another key feature of the Opn. It was the first hearing aid to connect directly to the internet via the IFTTT (If This Then That) network, allowing users to connect their hearing aids to various smart devices. While innovative in 2016, today’s hearing aids offer seamless connectivity with a wider range of devices and more intuitive user interfaces.
The Opn was available in various power levels to accommodate different degrees of hearing loss, from mild to severe-to-profound. Its small, comfortable design made it suitable for all-day wear, with a range of color options to match different hair and skin tones.
Are You an Oticon Opn Wearer?
If you’re still using the Oticon Opn, it’s important to consider that your device is now over seven years old. Given that hearing aids typically last between 4-7 years, you may be experiencing some challenges with your current devices.
While the Opn was cutting-edge in 2016, hearing aid technology has advanced significantly since then. Newer models offer improved sound quality, longer battery life, and even more seamless connectivity options. If you’re noticing any issues with your Opn or simply want to explore what advancements the latest technology could offer you, we encourage you to consider an upgrade.
At our clinic, we’re here to support you, whether you need repairs for your current Opn, want to explore newer models, or simply need a hearing health check-up. Our team of experienced audiologists can guide you through the latest options and help you find the perfect solution for your unique hearing needs.
Remember, staying current with hearing aid technology isn’t just about having the latest gadget – it’s about ensuring you’re getting the best possible hearing experience. Why not take the first step towards better hearing today? Contact us to schedule a consultation, and let’s explore how we can help you hear your best in 2023 and beyond.