Hearing aids help bridge the gap for millions impaired by hearing loss. Amongst the various types to choose from, there is one common aspect of hearing aids. They tend to be rather expensive. However, Olive Union is perking up ears with their latest product innovation. The Olive Pro two-in-one hearing aids look like and also function as Bluetooth earbuds.

Despite the lowered cost of technology and manufacturing, hearing aids remain inaccessible to many. Price points generally start just below US$1000, and they can range upwards of $8000 or more per device/ear. It’s quite the sticker shock. Also, many health care plans do not cover hearing aids, which adds financial burden on top of the difficulty of hearing impairment.

The Olive Pro two-in-one hearing aids combine modern aesthetic with familiar technology, but at an accessible price point. Plus, these aids are made to look and feel like quality Bluetooth earbuds. This design element is a huge deal for those who may feel uncomfortable with the stigma of traditional hearing aids. The Olive Pro accessories include silicone/foam ear tips, cable, and a compact wireless charging case.

Each IPX4 water-resistant earpiece houses patented sound technology that works with a multi-directional microphone and BA driver. Low-latency Bluetooth 5.1, standard in both hearing aid and Bluetooth modes, ensures that audio syncs naturally with the source. In hearing aid mode, users will be able to experience clear speech with voice detection and automatic background noise cancellation. And with its maximum gain of 50 dB, the Olive Pro is designed to assist those with mild- to moderately-severe hearing loss.

The Olive Pro will release with a mobile app for iOS and Android. Using the app, individuals will be able to take a five-minute hearing test to calibrate the aids. The earbuds operate independently with respect to each ear’s sound profile. In addition to adjustable audio settings, the app allows customization of the aids’ external touch controls. People can choose which function they want accessible without having to reach for a connected device.

Although the Olive Pro has much to offer versus traditional hearing aids, there are a few limitations. For one, the hearing aids require manual mode switching. This means you’ll have to press a button or two when you want to listen to Bluetooth audio, and then again to switch back to hearing aid mode. And you can’t split the difference by having one earpiece in hearing aid mode and the other in Bluetooth mode (although this functionality may come as a future over-the-air update).

Ultimately, Olive Union offers a modern hearing enhancement option at an affordable price. You can learn more about the Olive Pro two-in-one hearing aids on Indiegogo. Over two thousand backers have helped raise over $447 thousand dollars, and the project has several weeks left of funding to go. Pledges start at $199 for a single Olive Pro, saving $100 off the estimated retail cost. If everything goes according to schedule, backers can expect shipments to start as early as March 2021.

Source: Indiegogo, Olive Union