It is no secret that Apple has been working on wearable devices, but it is not the rumored iWatch we are talking about. The Cupertino-based company has collaborated with Denmark’s GN Store Nord, the world’s fourth-largest hearing-aid maker, to develop the ReSound LiNX, a hearing aid that integrates with the iPhone.
Instead of functioning like an intermediary transmitter, the ReSound LiNX essentially connects to the iPhone using a 2.4GHz wireless technology to stream voice and music from the smartphone. One will also be able to make or receive phone calls using the device. It also comes with an iOS app, which can be used to personalize one’s hearing aid.
By joining hands with Apple, GN Store Nord wants to take the stigma out of using a hearing aid and try making it more contemporary. “ReSound LiNX underlines our core strength of bringing breakthrough innovations to the hearing impaired and making them consumers with choices rather than patients with challenges,” the company’s CEO Lars Viksmoen said in a statement.
The ReSound LiNX will be globally launched early next year and will carry a price tag of around $3,000 (Rs 186,950 approximately).