Phonak have completed another first with the launch of their latest Bolero range based on the Belong platform. They announced yesterday that with the launch of the new range they would be offering a Lithium-ion powered rechargeable Behind The Ear Device. It will be the first of its kind and the first time that Phonak will have a rechargeable BTE. So, what is there to know?
Phonak
Bolero Belong Hearing Devices
As we said, alongside the launch of the new Bolero Belong platform of BTE hearing aids, they have launched the anticipated lithium-ion rechargeable BTE, the Bolero B-PR. It is the first Lithium-ion rechargeable BTE to the market and the first Phonak BTE hearing aid range with a rechargeable option. They say that it will deliver 24 hours of hearing with one simple charge (expected results when fully charged, and up to 80 minutes of wireless streaming time).
As with the Audeo rechargeable, I think people will be sceptical of that until they get their hands on them. It is interesting that they went for the P style for their rechargeable option. It is quite a powerful aid and can be expected to be fitted to people with severe hearing loss.
This demands a lot of power, so Phonak must be very confident with the battery technology. The Bolero range, as always, will be a full model line up with four Bolero B models. They will include B-M, B-P, B-SP, and the rechargeable B-PR. In line with the Audeo, It will run on the new improved AutoSense OS and will come in the usual four levels of technology. There was no word on the availability of the rechargeable device in the 30 level of technology but I would assume that as is the case with the Audeo, it will not be available in the lowest tech level.
What are the key features
- Rechargeable lithium-ion power cell
- 24 hours continuous use with up to 5 hours streaming
- Easy charging
- Unique OneShell design
- Probably only available in the 90, 70 and 50 level of tech
It made perfect sense for someone to introduce Litjium-ion powered BTEs and Phonak is the first, however, I don't think they will be the last. It will be interesting to see what else happens for rechargeable hearing devices in 2017. if you are looking for honest impartial advice on buying hearing aids, our hearing aid buyers guide is a good place to start.
