Engadget Logo Engadget Japanese version Sharp announces hearing aids that can be used as if they were completely wireless Less than half the price of general products

Eliminates the negative image of hearing aids, such as expensive and troublesome fitting at the store.

On August 31, 2021, Sharp announced the hearing aid "Medical Listening Plug" (MH-L1-B) that can be used like a complete wireless earphone, and will be released after mid-September. Sales channels include the company's direct sales site "COCORO STORE", electronics mass retailers, EC sites, and drug stores.

There are three major features. The first is that it has been certified as a controlled medical device and has achieved a low price of 99,800 yen (tax exempt), which is lower than the average purchase price of 300,000 yen for general hearing aids (both ears). The reason for this is that the company offers remote support for everything such as fitting and usage confirmation via a smartphone app, as well as optional long-term warranty services to keep initial costs down and keep prices low. I will explain that it has come true.

General hearing aids are said to require 3 to 10 trips to the store for fitting, but this unit also features an app that allows you to receive remote support from professionals. Users of this unit can perform video counseling after the start of use, fitting such as fine-tuning of hearing, and hearing training at home without going to a store.

The second point is that in addition to being used as a hearing aid, it can be used like a completely wireless earphone. In addition to the listening mode that makes it easier to hear conversations, the streaming mode that is suitable for video audio and music, hands-free calling using the built-in microphone is possible.

The third point is that the company provides after-sales service "care plan (optional/paid)" to users. Specifically, the "COCORO LISTENING" service that allows you to receive fitting support as many times as you like for 60 days after purchasing the product, extension of fitting support for 1 year, 5-year extended warranty, theft / loss compensation, etc. A care plan will be provided for you.

In the field of hearing aids, Rion, which boasts the top share in Japan, is ahead of the rest, and Sharp, which is a latecomer, is inexpensive. The selling point is that it can be used like a wireless earphone. In addition, during development, we collaborated with Neuroceuticals, a medical device manufacturer and distributor. As a hearing aid suitable for people with mild to moderate hearing loss, it will appeal mainly to users in their 40s to 60s who can use smartphones.

■ Specification table of the main unit

■ Case specification table

medical listening plug

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