Oticon Zeal™ offers a new type of in-the-ear hearing aid

Whether you’ve been recently diagnosed with hearing loss or are considering an upgrade from your current hearing aids, you likely have questions, especially when it comes to how hearing aids will look and feel, and what features they offer. 

Thankfully for hearing aid users, manufacturers continue to expand their options, including devices that combine a low-profile design with advanced technology. Oticon Zeal™ is one such example.

Oticon Zeal™ offers a new style of hearing aid 

Traditionally, nearly invisible hearing aids have prioritized a discreet profile.

Because of their compact size, they have often had more limited access to certain features, such as rechargeable batteries and Bluetooth® connectivity, which are more commonly found in behind-the-ear (BTE) and receiver-in-canal (RIC) hearing aid styles.

Oticon, the manufacturer, says Zeal is designed to challenge those limitations.

This new device combines the low-profile look of an in-ear device with the kind of performance more commonly associated with larger hearing aid styles, creating a new hearing aid category Oticon is calling NXT in-the-ear.

What does Oticon Zeal look like? 

Zeal sits inside the ear canal, with no components behind the ear. Instead, the antenna on Zeal wraps around the outer ear area just outside the canal. In this way it acts not only as an antenna, but also helps the device stay secure in your ear. It is used as a pull-out cord as well.

Additionally, instead of building a shell and then fitting components inside, Oticon built the internal layout for Zeal first, then encapsulated everything into one structure, similar to the technology used to build pacemakers.

The device is designed to sit at an angle, which makes it even more discreet and less noticeable during day to day conversations. 

What technology features does Zeal offer?

Artificial intelligence (AI) for natural sound 

Oticon Zeal uses artificial intelligence (AI) sound processing that works continuously throughout the day. Instead of simply making sounds louder, the device's technology adjusts how sound is delivered real-time based on the environment you are in.

Advanced AI technology makes it easier for hearing aid users to pick up sound and speech clearly, even in challenging environments like noisy restaurants or social events where you are talking to multiple people at once. 

Additionally, the ability to adjust your settings automatically in real time allows for a more seamless listening experience as you go about your day.

Easy connectivity 

Like many modern hearing aids, Oticon Zeal is designed to connect to your devices to stream audio directly.

Connectivity features include:

• Bluetooth® LE Audio compatibility
• Direct streaming from compatible Apple® devices, including iPhone, iPad, and Apple Watch
• Google Fast Pair for supported Android devices. Zeal is the first hearing aid to have this capability, which makes connecting and streaming with Android devices much simpler.

Zeal also supports Auracast™ broadcast technology, which allows wearers to receive audio broadcasts, such as announcements or shared audio streams, in certain public spaces where the technology is available.

Does it work with the Oticon Companion app?

Yes, Zeal pairs with the Oticon Companion app, letting users adjust volume, switch programs, and check battery status right from their smartphone.

Are Zeal hearing aids rechargeable?

Yes, Zeal is rechargeable. Oticon states that one charge should provide up to 20 hours of use, and that there is a quick-charge option where 30 minutes of charging can get you up to four hours of power.

Zeal also comes with a portable charging case, which makes it easier to charge while traveling or if you are away from any outlets.

Flexible fitting options

Another way that Zeal differs from other ITE devices is that it's designed to support flexible fitting options, including the possibility of same-day fittings by using a standard dome that can fit most ear types.

However, it can also be used with a custom molding created by your hearing professional for those who want or need a more precise fit.

This can allow some users to start wearing their hearing aids right away, with adjustments made over time as needs or preferences change.

Who Oticon Zeal may be a good fit for

Zeal may be a good option for:

• New hearing aid users
• People with mild to moderate hearing loss
• Those who prefer a low-profile design
• Users who prioritize features like rechargeable batteries, connectivity and AI processing

Always talk with a hearing care provider to help determine what kind of device works best for your particular hearing loss.

Finding the right hearing aid for you

It's important to remember that there’s no one-size-fits-all solution when it comes to hearing aids. Things like severity of hearing loss, lifestyle, work environment, and personal preferences all matter when choosing the right device.

That’s why working with a hearing care provider is such an important first step. Using our directory to find a provider near you can help you get the testing you need and to find a hearing solution that works for you.