MEMS Speakers for Over-The-Counter (OTC) Hearing Aids
USound MEMS technology can be utilized in a number of applications, including over-the-counter (OTC) hearing aids. These are a new type of assisting hearing devices that do not require a medical prescription and can be obtained in drugstores and retailers for consumer electronics. They are a more affordable option for a growing number of people suffering from mild to moderate hearing loss.
OTC hearing aids have already entered the United States (US) market and are regulated by the Food & Drug Administration (FDA). The projections for the US market are highly positive, valuing it at more than 1.06 billion USD, with an expected record of more than 6.60% Compound Annual Growth Rate (CAGR) from 2023 to 2030.
MEMS Speaker Applications
Due to their small size, integration flexibility, robustness, and sound precision, USound’s microspeakers can benefit the design and production of:
True Wireless Systems (TWS) earphones
Augmented Reality & Virtual Reality Glasses and Headsets
Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) Headphones and Medical Devices
Over-the-counter (OTC) hearing aids
OTC Hearing Aid Components
OTC hearing aids usually require the following components: a microphone that picks up sound, amplifier circuitry that makes the sound louder, a miniature loudspeaker (receiver) that delivers the amplified sound into the ear canal, and batteries that power the electronic parts.
USound MEMS Speaker Benefits for OTC Hearing Aids
MEMS speaker benefits for assisted hearing devices include:
- Compact form for seamless integration into miniaturized devices.
- Excellent audio performance and clarity for the most high-performing hearing devices.
- Extended battery life for uninterrupted use.
- IPX8 rating for water-resistant devices.
- SMT reflow soldering for an automatic pick and place assembly.
- Ultra-low vibrations and lightweight components for increased comfort.
- Low heat generation for safe-to-use assisted hearing devices.
- Drop-proof, robust design with 100% survival rate at a 1.9m drop test.
As OTC hearing aid devices require a miniaturized loudspeaker, USound speakers are the ideal OTC hearing aid component. They are much thinner than conventional speakers, offering the most compact design to be seamlessly integrated into the tiniest audio devices, allowing design freedom for additional components or for a more compact design. Moreover, our microspeakers are IPX8 certified and can be safely submerged underwater for 3 meters in depth for up to 30 minutes. They are drop-proof and generate extra low heat and low vibrations and consist of ultra lightweight components, increasing the user’s comfort.
USound MEMS Products for OTC Hearing Aids
USound offers a wide range of MEMS-based audio solutions for OTC hearing aids. Two of our products, the Kore module and the Conamara microspeaker series, have been specifically designed considering the specifications of OTC hearing devices.
Conamara UA-C0603-3F Datasheet
Interested in our technology?
Contact our sales department.
