As we look back to 2015, we recall a year of significant events. Sadly, a series of terrorist attacks in Paris shocked the world. On a brighter note, the U.S. Supreme Court legalized same-sex marriage nationwide, a decision celebrated by many. And in the world of science, NASA’s New Horizons spacecraft completed its historic flyby of Pluto, giving us our first close-up views of the distant dwarf planet.
Amidst these global happenings, Unitron introduced the Stride hearing aid, a device that represented a leap forward in hearing technology at the time. While no longer in production, many individuals still rely on their Stride devices for better hearing.
What Was Special About the Unitron Stride?
The Unitron Stride was designed to enhance the listening experience for those with mild to severe hearing loss. Its sleek design and advanced features made it a popular choice among hearing aid users.
One of the standout innovations was Unitron’s SoundNav technology. This system automatically classified and adapted to different listening environments, ensuring clear and comfortable sound in various settings. While groundbreaking at the time, today’s hearing aids offer even more sophisticated environmental adaptation, with some able to recognize and adjust to hundreds of unique sound scenarios.
The Stride also introduced Unitron’s Flex technology, allowing users to easily adjust their hearing aid settings to match personal preferences. This feature gave users unprecedented control over their hearing experience. Modern hearing aids have built upon this concept, now offering smartphone apps that provide even more detailed and intuitive customization options.
For those who wanted even more control, the Remote Plus app allowed users to discreetly adjust volume and settings with their smartphones. This feature has since become standard in most hearing aids, with current models offering more advanced connectivity and streaming capabilities.
The Unitron Stride was available in various styles, including behind-the-ear (BTE) and in-the-ear (ITE) models, and came in a range of colors to match different skin tones or personal styles. This focus on aesthetics and personalization has only increased in recent years, with some modern hearing aids being virtually invisible when worn.
Durability was another key feature of the Stride, with resistance to water, dust, and debris. Today’s hearing aids have further improved on this, with many offering full waterproofing and even more robust protection against the elements.
The Stride’s telecoil feature allowed users to connect to hearing loops in public places, enhancing accessibility in challenging acoustic environments. While still useful, newer technologies like Bluetooth connectivity have expanded on this concept, offering more versatile ways to connect to external audio sources.
Are You a Unitron Stride Wearer?
If you’re still using a Unitron Stride, it’s important to note that this technology is now over seven years old. Given that hearing aids typically have a lifespan of 4-7 years, you may be experiencing some challenges with your device. While the Stride was innovative for its time, hearing aid technology has advanced significantly since 2015.
At Duncan Hearing Healthcare, we understand the importance of keeping up with the latest advancements in hearing technology. Whether you need repairs for your current device or are interested in exploring newer options, our team of experienced audiologists is here to help. We can assess your current hearing needs and introduce you to the latest innovations that have built upon the foundation laid by devices like the Stride.
Remember, your hearing health is an ongoing journey, and staying current with technology can make a significant difference in your quality of life. Why not schedule a visit with us to explore how far hearing aid technology has come since 2015? Your ears (and your loved ones) will thank you!
