Comparing Premium Hearing Aid Features of Starkey Edge AI and ReSound Vivia
At Family Audiology and Hearing Centers, we understand that selecting the right hearing aid technology can significantly impact your quality of life. Premium hearing aid technology continues to advance rapidly, with manufacturers incorporating sophisticated features to enhance the hearing experience. In 2025, two standout options in premium hearing technology are the Starkey Edge AI and ReSound Vivia. Both utilize artificial intelligence to provide exceptional sound quality, but they approach this goal with different technologies and features.
Advanced AI Technology
Both hearing aids leverage artificial intelligence, but in distinctly different ways.
The Starkey Edge AI features a groundbreaking G2 Neuro Processor with a fully integrated neural processing unit (NPU). This technology is designed to classify complex soundscapes, enhance speech, and reduce noise in real-time. The processor mimics the human brain's central auditory system to provide a natural listening experience through its Neuro Sound Technology 2.0, which incorporates acoustic information, motion, and listening intent.
ReSound Vivia is powered by GN's onboard dual-chip AI technology that mirrors the brain's natural way of processing sound. Its Intelligent Focus feature prioritizes sounds based on the direction a user is looking, helping them focus on conversations in complex auditory environments. The DNN chip enables up to 17 times more efficient sound processing, enhancing speech clarity while minimizing background noise. Trained on 13.5 million spoken sentences in various languages and with varied vocal effort across 3.9 million tuned sound parameters, the DNN can perform 4.9 trillion operations per day.
Speech Understanding in Noise
One of the most significant challenges for hearing aid users is understanding speech in noisy environments.
The Starkey Edge AI utilizes its AI technology to bring clarity to chaotic conditions. The system has been trained on millions of sounds to distinguish those of interest from distracting noises, focusing on the "good" sounds while diminishing the "bad" to deliver a cleaner signal. It also includes Edge Mode+, an on-demand feature that allows users to zero-in on speech in challenging environments by connecting with the My Starkey app.
GN's internal research suggests that 64% of users experience better speech comprehension in noise with ReSound Vivia compared to other AI-assisted hearing aids. Additionally, 83% of patients prefer the new Intelligent Focus over the company's previous-generation noise-reduction products. Dr. Laurel Christensen, GN Chief Audiology Officer, explains that they've trained their DNN on speech in noise, taking a considered approach to reducing noise while ensuring all important information remains available.
Battery Life and Charging
Battery life is a crucial consideration for hearing aid users who depend on their devices throughout the day.
The Starkey Edge AI maintains an impressive 51 hours of battery life, even when streaming content. It's also waterproof up to 1 meter (rechargeable styles only).
The ReSound Vivia provides up to 30 hours of use on a single charge or 20 hours with Intelligent Focus and streaming combined. A quick charge of 10 minutes gives you 2.7 hours of wearing time. Charger options include desktop, standard, or premium chargers.
Design and Comfort
Both manufacturers recognize that comfort and discretion are priorities for hearing aid wearers.
The Starkey Edge AI RIC RT is described as having a modern, discreet, all-day-comfortable design tailored to unique hearing needs. The Edge AI is available in multiple styles, including RIC RT, mRIC R, RIC 312, ITE R, ITC/HS R, and CIC.
ReSound Vivia is offered in three models: the microRIE (rechargeable), and the RIE 61 and RIE 62 (disposable-battery models). The microRIE is described as the world's smallest micro-receiver-in-ear hearing aid powered by AI. Vivia comes in 10 color options (including Navy Blue and Red), and the microRIE has a CROS version for people with single-sided deafness.
Connectivity Features
Modern hearing aids are no longer just amplification devices but have evolved into sophisticated communication hubs.
The Starkey Edge AI's My Starkey app serves as a control center for the hearing aids, allowing users to change programs and adjust volume on their smartphone or Apple Watch. It also offers convenience features like streaming calls and reminders, finding lost hearing aids, and requesting remote TeleHear sessions with hearing care professionals.
ReSound Vivia uses Bluetooth LE Audio 5.2 and is Auracast-equipped, providing wireless audio streaming for Apple iOS and Android, with hands-free phone calls from compatible Apple iOS devices. GN also introduces what is reportedly the world's first app that integrates an Auracast Assistant for hearing aids, simplifying the process of selecting Auracast streams.
Additional Health and Wellness Features
Both hearing aids extend beyond traditional hearing enhancement to offer health monitoring capabilities.
The Starkey Edge AI includes features to maintain overall wellness, allowing users to monitor exercise and social/cognitive activities, detect falls and send alerts to caregivers, and even gain awareness of balance with a self-guided balance assessment.
ReSound Vivia primarily focuses on hearing performance rather than health monitoring features. Its advantage lies in the precision and adaptability of its sound processing technology.
Real-World Performance
User experiences provide valuable insights into how these advanced features translate to everyday use.
Starkey Edge AI users report significant improvements in their hearing experience. Brian, a music venue owner from Minnesota, praises the ability to make quick adjustments with a phone. Renee, an aerospace engineer and avid kayaker from Louisiana, notes that the technology is "leaps and bounds on where it was two years ago." Stan from Mississippi, a retired design engineer, shares that he can "understand just about everything my granddaughter is saying again."
ReSound Vivia is a newer addition to the market, and while comprehensive user testimonials are still emerging, the technology's focus on providing natural sound while prioritizing speech is promising for real-world applications.
Choosing Between Starkey Edge AI and ReSound Vivia
When deciding between these two premium hearing aids, several considerations may guide your choice:
- Sound Processing Approach: Starkey's approach focuses on a neural processor that processes tasks in three distinct areas: sensory, subconscious, and conscious. ReSound's dual-chip architecture separates core sound processing and AI processing for speech-in-noise separation.
- Battery Life: If extended battery life is a priority, the Starkey Edge AI's 51-hour battery life outperforms the ReSound Vivia's 30 hours.
- Connectivity: Both offer advanced connectivity options, but ReSound's integration of Auracast technology may offer advantages in public spaces with Auracast transmitters.
- Health Features: The Starkey Edge AI offers more comprehensive health monitoring features, including fall detection and balance assessment.
- Size and Style Options: Both offer various styles and colors, with ReSound claiming to have the world's smallest microRIE AI-powered hearing aid.
The Importance of Professional Fitting
At Family Audiology and Hearing Centers, we emphasize that while these technologies are impressive, the expertise of an audiologist in properly fitting and programming these devices is crucial for optimal performance. We perform Real Ear Measurements with all our hearing aid fittings to ensure you're receiving the appropriate amplification for your unique hearing profile.
No matter how advanced a hearing aid is, the value of proper fitting, programming, and ongoing care cannot be overstated. Each person's hearing needs are unique, and the personalized approach provided by our audiologists ensures that you get the most benefit from whichever technology you choose.
Schedule Your Consultation Today
With 17 convenient locations across Ohio, our team of experienced audiologists at Family Audiology and Hearing Centers is ready to help you navigate these advanced hearing technologies. We invite you to schedule a consultation to experience both the Starkey Edge AI and ReSound Vivia firsthand, allowing you to make an informed decision based on your specific hearing needs, lifestyle, and preferences.
Contact us today to take the first step toward better hearing with the latest AI-powered hearing aid technology. Let us help you stay connected to the sounds and people that matter most in your life.
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