Google uses AI and machine learning to improve hearing aids and cochlear implants

Google has partnered with Cochlear, an Australian hearing coalition, to enhance and customize assistive hearing devices such as cochlear implants and hearing aids by using machine learning and artificial intelligence. With the world facing a hearing loss crisis, where approximately 1.5 billion people or 430 million people with disabling hearing loss live worldwide, the aim is to bring better hearing technologies for people experiencing hearing loss. Google hopes to cut down on background noise by segregating and identifying sound sources using AI, thereby improving clarity of sound in noisy situations. Cochlear is also developing new guidelines for those who could benefit from cochlear implants, as not everyone is aware of or has access to technology to improve their hearing.