Starkey has released its most advanced hearing aid platform, Omega AI, and we're excited to offer this technology to our patients in Beaufort, South Carolina. The Omega AI represents a significant advancement in hearing aid capabilities, combining deep neural network processing with extended battery life, waterproof durability, and health-tracking features that go beyond traditional hearing assistance.
The standout feature of Omega AI is DNN 360 Directionality, the first deep neural network-powered directional system in hearing aids. This technology continuously adapts to your environment, allowing you to move seamlessly between conversations from any direction while maintaining natural spatial awareness. Testing shows up to an 8 dB improvement in signal-to-noise ratio and a 28% gain in speech intelligibility compared to previous Starkey models.
What makes this particularly impressive is that these gains come without sacrificing battery performance. Omega AI maintains 51 hours of battery life, even with the advanced processing running continuously in the background.
We understand that hearing aids need to withstand real-world conditions. Omega AI features waterproofing tested to last 10 times longer than previous coatings under demanding conditions. Whether you're caught in Beaufort's afternoon showers or working in humid environments, these devices are built to perform.
The rechargeable models include waterproof protection up to 1 meter, giving you peace of mind during daily activities. Custom models use a new shell resin that's 20 times tougher than before while still allowing us to make modifications when needed.
One of the most practical innovations in Omega AI is TeleHear AI, which uses generative artificial intelligence to help you troubleshoot common issues in real time. The system can predict and resolve problems with 93% accuracy, and 84% of patients who used it reported meaningful benefits. This means fewer trips to our office for minor adjustments and more confidence managing your devices independently.
Omega AI's RIC RT and mRIC R models include LED indicator lights that serve a dual purpose. The green and red lights confirm power and Bluetooth connection at a glance, but they also function as a locator tool. If you misplace your hearing aids, the LED feature helps you quickly find them—an industry-first capability that addresses one of the most common frustrations among hearing aid users.
Starkey continues expanding the role of hearing aids as health companions with two new wellness features available through the My Starkey app.
Balance Builder provides guided at-home exercises designed to improve stability and coordination. This builds on Starkey's previous work with Stanford University on fall-risk management. For many of our patients, particularly those concerned about maintaining independence as they age, this feature offers practical value beyond hearing assistance.
The automatic respiratory rate monitor tracks your breathing in the background without impacting battery performance. This passive monitoring can help identify potential health changes early, giving you and your healthcare providers valuable data for proactive care.
Omega AI supports Bluetooth LE Audio and is Auracast-ready, meaning you can stream audio from compatible devices with improved quality and lower power consumption. The streaming experience includes automatic connection to the StarLink Edge TV Streamer, eliminating the need to manually reconnect after interruptions.
Through the My Starkey app, you can:
When you encounter particularly challenging listening situations—crowded restaurants, busy events, or noisy gatherings—Edge Mode+ gives you on-demand ability to focus on speech. This proprietary feature adapts specifically to unexpected listening conditions, providing clarity when you need it most.
We offer Omega AI in multiple styles to match your preferences and hearing needs:
RIC RT (Rechargeable): The most popular style, sitting discreetly behind your ear with a thin wire connecting to a receiver in your ear canal. Available with LED indicators for status and location finding.
mRIC R (Mini Rechargeable): A smaller rechargeable receiver-in-canal option for those wanting maximum discretion.
Custom Models: Completely-in-canal and in-the-ear options custom-built from ear impressions, now using the tougher shell resin for improved durability.
Each style is available in multiple technology levels, allowing us to recommend the appropriate features based on your listening environments, communication needs, and budget.
At Kalady Audiology, we follow best practices when fitting hearing aids, including Real Ear Measurement. This verification method allows us to program your Omega AI precisely to your unique hearing loss, ensuring you receive the full benefit of the technology rather than relying on generic settings.
Dr. Meg Kalady is a Dr. Cliff Approved Provider, which means our practice has committed to the highest standards in audiology care. We take the time needed during your fitting appointments to optimize your hearing aids for your specific needs and provide thorough training on their use and maintenance.
To enhance your Omega AI experience, Starkey offers several rechargeable, Bluetooth-enabled accessories:
Remote Microphone: Clips to a conversation partner's clothing, transmitting their voice directly to your hearing aids—particularly useful in noisy environments or when social distancing makes it harder to hear.
Table Microphone: Sits in the center of a table during meetings or family dinners, picking up voices from all directions and streaming them to your hearing aids.
TV Streamer: Connects to your television, streaming audio directly to your hearing aids at your preferred volume while others watch at their comfort level.
When you schedule a consultation with us about Omega AI, we start with a comprehensive hearing evaluation in our noise-controlled sound booth. This testing is non-invasive and helps us understand your current hearing abilities and communication challenges.
If testing reveals hearing loss that would benefit from treatment, we discuss options that match your lifestyle. Dr. Kalady considers your specific communication needs, listening environments, and budget when making recommendations. We're an independently owned practice, which gives us the flexibility to fit you with the best model for your situation without pressure to recommend only certain brands.
Your fitting appointment includes detailed programming using Real Ear Measurement, hands-on training with your devices, and instruction on maintenance and care. We schedule follow-up appointments to fine-tune your hearing aids as you adjust to them and encounter different listening situations.
While various hearing devices are available online, research consistently shows that professional fitting and ongoing care provide better outcomes. Hearing aids from leading manufacturers like Starkey are medical devices that require precise programming for your specific hearing loss. Without proper verification and adjustment, even advanced technology may not deliver the results you need.
We provide comprehensive aftercare, including regular maintenance appointments, troubleshooting support, and reprogramming as your hearing changes over time. This relationship-based approach to hearing healthcare helps ensure your investment delivers long-term value.
If you're experiencing hearing loss or your current hearing aids aren't meeting your needs, Omega AI may offer the combination of clarity, durability, and smart features you're looking for. Dr. Kalady has 37 years of experience in audiology and stays current on new products and solutions to serve our patients well.
Contact Kalady Audiology at 843-524-7920 to schedule a consultation at our office at 968 Ribaut Rd, Suite 2 in Beaufort. We'll evaluate your hearing, discuss your communication challenges, and help you determine if Omega AI is the right solution for reconnecting with the people and activities that matter to you.
Dr. Meg Kalady is from the Philadelphia suburbs and has been practicing audiology for the last 30 years. She completed her undergraduate and graduate degrees at Bloomsburg University of Pennsylvania, and she received her doctorate in audiology in 2012 from AT Still University.
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Dr. Kalady is ready to help you take control of your hearing health. Contact our friendly practice to schedule a consultation.
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