ReSound Vivia hearing aids: review

With the launch of ReSound Vivia, the brand has stepped confidently into the AI-driven hearing space, joining competitors like Starkey and Phonak. At the core of this innovation is “Intelligent Focus”, ReSound’s offline artificial intelligence system powered by a deep neural network (DNN). Trained on more than 13 million real-life speech samples and capable of processing 3.9 million sound parameters, the system executes an incredible 4.9 trillion operations to help you hear clearly in complex environments. Whether you’re in a noisy café, riding in a car, or walking through a busy high street, ReSound Vivia hearing aids use this AI to detect and prioritise the sounds you want—like speech—while suppressing the background noise that gets in the way. The result? Improved clarity, sharper focus, and a more natural listening experience, all delivered in real time, without relying on an internet connection. With ReSound Vivia, AI doesn’t just assist your hearing—it actively enhances it in the moments that matter most.

ReSound Vivia introduces subtle but meaningful upgrades to its microphone system, boosting both performance and durability. While the sound quality improvements may not be revolutionary on their own, the changes contribute to a noticeably better experience in real-world environments. Thanks to Clear Focus technology, 83% of users report improved hearing in noisy settings compared to top competitors using four-microphone beamforming systems. Even more impressively, 64% say they hear better in noise than with other leading AI-powered hearing aids. That’s a strong vote of confidence in Vivia’s intelligent design. The microphones themselves have been redesigned for resilience, with new protective covers that do a better job of keeping out dust, moisture, and debris. This not only helps preserve sound quality over time but also reduces the risk of technical issues. If problems do arise, the new mic covers are user-replaceable—you can change them yourself at home or during a quick clinic visit, without the need to send your hearing aids off for service. It's a small but smart improvement that reflects ReSound's focus on real-life usability, making ReSound Vivia one of the most practical and user-friendly hearing aids on the UK market today.

Unlike some competitors—such as Phonak and Oticon—who’ve had to enlarge their devices to accommodate next-gen features, ReSound Vivia hearing aids retain the same compact, discreet form factor as the earlier Nexia models. This is a notable achievement, especially given the substantial increase in processing power under the hood.

To support its advanced AI functions, ReSound has integrated a dual-chip architecture, with one chip dedicated entirely to artificial intelligence. This second chip powers the Deep Neural Network (DNN) behind Vivia’s Intelligent Focus, delivering fast, accurate sound processing—all without compromising size or comfort.

Intelligence Augmented: Designed to Support Your Brain

• ReSound’s approach to AI isn’t about replacing your brain—it’s about working with it. Branded as "Intelligence Augmented", the Vivia platform is built on the belief that the brain remains the most powerful sound processor.
• Instead of overwhelming natural cognition, Vivia enhances it, stepping in only when extra support is needed. Whether it’s filtering background noise or amplifying speech in challenging environments, Vivia helps you stay engaged—without taking over the job your brain already does so well.
• It’s smart, efficient, and designed for natural hearing in the real world, all within a sleek, comfortable shell.

• One of the biggest challenges with AI-driven hearing aids is battery drain. In many models—like Phonak’s Infinio Sphere—users may get strong performance in noisy environments, but often at the cost of fast battery depletion. AI features in these devices tend to be limited in how long they can stay active before needing a recharge.
• ReSound Vivia, on the other hand, sets a new benchmark. Despite powering a dual-chip system and advanced Intelligent Focus AI, it delivers up to 30 hours of battery life on a single charge—or 20 hours with continuous audio streaming. What truly stands out is Vivia’s ability to keep its AI functions fully engaged for up to 10 consecutive hours. That’s reportedly three times longer than what some rival models can manage. It means you can enjoy intelligent speech clarity, noise reduction, and natural sound processing throughout the most demanding parts of your day—without having to worry about running out of power.
• With Vivia, ReSound has struck a rare balance: powerful performance without compromising battery life, giving users confidence and comfort from morning to night.

• While many hearing aid brands have started integrating low-energy Bluetooth, ReSound Vivia stands out as the first to fully enable Auracast™ streaming, placing it ahead of the competition in terms of real-world functionality.
• So what makes Auracast such a breakthrough? For one, it dramatically improves Bluetooth sound quality while lowering battery consumption, making everyday streaming—like music, phone calls, or podcasts—clearer and more energy-efficient. But the real game-changer lies in public audio access. With Auracast-ready hearing aids like ReSound Vivia, users will soon be able to connect directly to audio broadcasts in public venues—airports, theatres, conference halls—without needing additional devices or traditional hearing loops. These venues can install Auracast transmitters to wirelessly stream high-quality sound straight to your ears.
• This not only enhances accessibility but also offers a more inclusive and seamless listening experience. Over the next few years, as adoption grows, Auracast is expected to replace traditional loop systems, allowing multiple hearing aid users to tune into shared audio feeds effortlessly. With ReSound Vivia, you’re not just getting a hearing aid—you’re stepping into the future of connected hearing.

 

ReSound Vivia hearing aids are designed to make advanced hearing technology feel effortless. Built around real-world needs, they enhance natural hearing by letting you focus clearly on what matters—without distraction. At the core of Vivia is Intelligent Focus, which reduces background noise, and a powerful DualChip, Triple Processor system supported by a Deep Neural Network (DNN) trained on over 13 million real-life speech samples. Together, they work seamlessly with your brain’s natural processing to improve speech clarity, even in challenging environments. Designed for durability and day-long comfort, ReSound Vivia is IP68-rated to resist moisture and dust, with easy-to-replace microphone filters that help maintain performance over time. With the ReSound Smart 3D app, adjusting your hearing aids is as easy as a tap. You can control volume, switch programs, and access the Sound Enhancer—all from your smartphone’s home screen—keeping you connected and in control, wherever you are.

• Top-tier performance for users with active lifestyles.
• 24 channels for fine-tuned sound processing.
• Full feature set of Intelligent Focus, ReSound’s AI-powered system for optimal speech understanding in noise.
• Best noise reduction, wind reduction, and spatial awareness.
• Ideal for challenging listening environments like restaurants, group conversations, or outdoor activities.

• Mid-to-high performance, suitable for moderately active users.
• 20 channels for personalised fitting.
• Most core features of Intelligent Focus included, but at slightly reduced strength compared to Vivia 9.
• Great balance between performance and value.
• Handles a range of environments including social gatherings and occasional noisy settings.

• Mid-range option for less complex listening needs.
• 12–14 channels depending on configuration.
• Core access to the Vivia platform and environmental optimisers.
• Suitable for users with mostly quiet or moderately noisy environments (e.g., one-on-one conversations, TV at home).

• The official ReSound website provides full user guides and quick-reference guides:
• Receiver‑in‑Ear Rechargeable User Guide – detailed instructions on fitting, care, controls, charging, wireless accessories
• Quick Guides – model-specific step-by-step summaries 

1. Insert the receiver into your ear canal, the hearing aid rests behind the ear.
2. Removing: turn off first (see below), then gently remove from ear.
3. Switch on/off: simply close/open the battery door (or charger).
4. “Smart Start” delays activation by 5–10 seconds if enabled—ask your audiologist to adjust 

• Multi-Function Button: short presses cycle through programs; long-press for streaming or other customizable functions.
• Volume Control: adjust via the app, remote, or optional physical rocker switch.
• Program Indicators: distinct beeps indicate selected program (1 beep = Program 1, etc.)

• Rechargeable models offer up to ~30 hours per charge.
• LED indicator blinks slowly while charging.
• Quick-charge short burst (e.g., 10 min) adds listening time.
• For non‑rechargeable versions: use zinc-air batteries, wait 2 minutes after inserting foil before closing cover 

• Wipe daily with a soft cloth; clean microphone inlets with provided brush gently.
• Remove domes and wax guards regularly—replace as needed.
• If moisture enters, open battery door overnight to dry

• ReSound Smart 3D app: control volume, programs, tinnitus sound generator.
• Wireless accessories include TV Streamer 2, Phone Clip +, Multi Mic, etc.
• Pairing via Bluetooth and enabling “Assist” allows remote adjustments by your audiologist 

Watch helpful walk-throughs, such as ReSound Smart app setup, on YouTube—Dr. Cliff Olsen guides the process step by step 

• Download the correct user guide or quick-start PDF.
• Master insertion, controls, charging.
• Keep the aids clean and dry.
• Use the app and accessories for personalized control.
• Refer to troubleshooting resources when needed.
• For personal customization and tech assistance, schedule follow-up sessions with your audiologist.

• Entry-level models, such as those in the ReSound Key range, start from around £695 per hearing aid.
• Mid-range to premium models, including the ReSound ONE 9 M&RIE, typically begin at about £1,695 per aid, with premium-level pairs costing up to £3,295.
• These prices vary depending on the clinic and whether services like fitting and aftercare are included.

• In the United States, the newer ReSound Vivia series is priced between $1,620 and $2,245 per device, depending on the technology level. A pair may range from $3,075 to $4,325.
• Across the full ReSound product range, U.S. prices typically fall between $2,000 and $7,000 per pair, depending on model, accessories, and service package.

While ReSound hearing aids are not as affordable as over-the-counter (OTC) options—which may cost as little as $100–$700 per pair—they offer much higher performance and professional support. Compared to top competitors like Phonak or Oticon, ReSound devices are competitively priced, especially considering features like:

• AI-enhanced sound processing
• Bluetooth LE Audio
• Auracast-ready streaming
• Smart app controls
• Long battery life and IP68-rated durability

When you purchase ReSound hearing aids through an audiologist or hearing clinic, the cost often covers:

• Professional fitting and tuning
• Multi-year manufacturer warranty
• Aftercare services (e.g., check-ups, cleanings, adjustments)
• Access to accessories like chargers, remote controls, and streaming devices
• Trial periods and financing options in many clinics

ReSound hearing aids may not be the cheapest on the market, but they offer excellent value for those who want high-quality, reliable hearing technology. For those on a tighter budget, entry-level models and payment plans are available, and OTC hearing aids may be a reasonable alternative for mild hearing loss.

• ReSound Vivia is built around a dual-chip system that includes a Deep Neural Network (DNN) and an AI engine known as Intelligent Focus. This system dynamically enhances speech based on your listening position and direction, making it easier to follow conversations in noisy or complex environments.
• Phonak Sphere Infinio, also powered by a dual-chip setup, uses Spheric Speech Clarity, which focuses on capturing speech from multiple directions without relying on beamforming alone. Its omnidirectional approach allows users to hear conversations all around them, rather than just in front.

In real-world use, Vivia has been praised for its superior noise suppression in challenging environments like restaurants, delivering more focused listening with less distraction. Meanwhile, Sphere is often preferred for its rich, immersive audio during music streaming, although some users find it less effective in isolating speech in loud settings.

• ReSound Vivia offers up to 30 hours of use on a single charge (or around 20 hours with streaming), and its AI features can run continuously for up to 10 hours without a performance drop.
• Phonak Sphere, while powerful, is more power-hungry. Average battery life is around 16 hours, and using the AI-intensive Sphere mode may reduce that further. For active users, this could mean more frequent charging.

• Vivia features a sleek, compact microRIE design that is both discreet and comfortable. It's IP68-rated for dust and moisture resistance and includes replaceable mic filters for easy maintenance.
• Sphere is noticeably larger, due to its internal components, and some users have reported reduced comfort when wearing it behind the ear for long periods—especially compared to slimmer models.

Both devices support Bluetooth LE Audio and are Auracast-ready, offering the latest in streaming technology and public broadcast audio compatibility. While ReSound Vivia is fully LE Audio-enabled out of the box, Sphere currently operates on classic Bluetooth with LE Audio support expected in future updates.