Phonak Infinio Versus Phonak Lumity Hearing Aids

Phonak Audeo Infinio vs Phonak Audeo Lumity Hearing Aids

Comparing the two ranges - What's the difference?

Comparing Lumity with Infinio

What are the differences between Phonak Audeo Lumity and Phonak Audeo Infinio?  When we compare different models within the same brand, we look at what has changed, what has stayed the same and what are the benefits of upgrading to the latest range.  

We hope this article's details will help determine if investing in Infinio is the right solution or upgrade for your needs.

The Infinio platform offers a significant advancement in AI and deep neural network (DNN) capabilities within hearing aids. At the core of the Phonak Sphere Infinio is the DEEPSONIC, or Deep Sound Optimised Neural Integrated Chip, which is a novel addition to the Phonak family.

While Phonak Lumity introduced AI for enhanced speech recognition in challenging environments, Phonak has indicated that Infinio has the potential to truly transform the sound landscape.

A chip upgrade

The DEEPSONIC chip boasts an impressive 53 times the processing power, leveraging 22 million sound samples to train its DNN algorithms and performing 7,700 operations per second. What does this mean for wearers? According to Phonak, the Spheric Speech Clarity feature significantly enhances the ability to hear and comprehend conversations.

The technology also provides easier listening in noisy settings, demonstrating great efficiency with statistics such as a 34% reduction in listening effort when hearing speech from a distance.  Plus, a 45% reduction in effort for speech coming from an adjacent room.

An AutoSense upgrade

Phonak Infinio includes AutoSense 6.0, an upgraded version of AutoSense 5.0, found in Lumity. This intelligent system acts as the operating framework for the hearing aids, automatically detecting the sound environment and adjusting settings accordingly to optimise and enhance hearing experiences.

However, it’s essential to note that, like other hearing aids, the effectiveness of the Phonak Audeo Infinio in enhancing speech perception is ultimately influenced by how they fit in your ears. When fitted with open domes, which are typically recommended for those with mild to moderate hearing loss, background noise can still infiltrate.

This is why your audiologist is an important part of achieving the right balance between comfort, sound quality, and the capabilities of the Phonak Infinio for improved speech understanding amid background noise.  Fitted right, you can depend more on your hearing rather than relying heavily on lip reading and the context of a conversation.

Does Infinio offer better Bluetooth connectivity than Lumity?

Phonak has chosen to maintain its Classic Bluetooth with the latest Phonak Infinio platform, similar to its previous models.  Reports indicate that the Phonak Audeo Infinio hearing aids are equipped with Bluetooth 5.3, offering more stable connectivity and an extended range compared to the Phonak Lumity, which uses Bluetooth 4.2. 

This Classic Bluetooth approach enhances compatibility with Android smartphones.  Like the Phonak Audeo Lumity, the Audeo Infinio can pair with up to eight devices and connect to two simultaneously, allowing wearers to switch between them as needed.

This functionality is particularly useful for those working from home, as it enables seamless connectivity between their hearing aids and devices like laptops for applications such as Zoom during virtual meetings.

Infinio is also Auracast-ready, although it’s important to mention that, although it is integrated into Infinio, it has not been activated yet.  Chances are this will be a free firmware update in the future.

Any drawbacks to Phonak Infinio?

Looking at the Phonak Audeo Infinio Sphere in particular, it stands out as being one of the potential top hearing aids to launch in 2024. Its ability to enhance speech comprehension in challenging noise environments is commendable; however, there are a couple of areas that might present a barrier to some.

Size: The device is relatively large, which might put off some wearers, particularly those seeking more discreet options or those with smaller ear shapes.  There are smaller receiver-in-canal (RIC) hearing aids available, like the Widex models, but it all depends on what's important to you.  Is it technology or discretion?

However, opting for other small offerings might mean sacrificing key features, which might be deemed important to you, such as Bluetooth connectivity, rechargeable batteries, and enhanced clarity and noise reduction capabilities.

Battery life: Using the Sphere Speech in Noise program for optimal noise management and clarity can significantly impact battery performance, reducing the runtime of a fully charged unit from 16 hours down to just 7 hours.  This is shorter than some other premium models out there.

In reality, if your hearing aids are functioning in their AutoSense mode and you maintain a balanced lifestyle, you should find that the battery lasts all day. However, using the AI-driven "spherical speech in noise" mode continuously can significantly reduce battery life, potentially cutting it in half. 

Should I invest in the Phonak Infinio?

If you're considering an upgrade to your hearing aids, the Phonak Audeo Infinio is certainly a strong contender among the premium options on the market. If budget permits, we recommend opting for the Phonak Audeo Sphere Infinio over the standard Audeo Infinio due to its enhanced processing power.  It will significantly improve your speech clarity.

Regardless of the situation, it’s important to consider what your current hearing aids do well, where they might fall short, and if your hearing needs or typical listening environments have changed. Are you engaging more socially or spending time in noisy places where better hearing is essential?

Consult your local audiologist to discuss these details and determine if Phonak Infinio (either standard or Sphere) is the right solution or upgrade for your hearing loss needs.  Compare Lumity and Infinio's features and watch the Infinio hearing aid video below.