OEM News

Phonak Debuts Compact Rechargeable Hearing Aid

Widespread availability began in the U.S. late last month.

By: Michael Barbella

Managing Editor

The Phonak Virto R Infinio. Photo: Phonak.

Phonak has officially introduced the Virto R Infinio, its most compact rechargeable custom in-the-ear (ITE) hearing aid powered by the advanced Infinio technology. Designed for active style-conscious individuals, the Virto R Infinio features a sleek, compact design that combines exceptional sound quality, seamless connectivity, and all-day comfort, according to the company.

“Users have long desired a small, discreet, and fully featured in-the-ear hearing aid. Through our RightFit customization, the Phonak Virto R Infinio delivers what is likely the smallest rechargeable ITE, perfectly blending style and advanced functionality,” Phonak Marketing Vice President Oliver Frank stated.

Virto R Infinio Key Features

1. RightFit customization

  • Tailored Fit: State-of-the-art customization process ensuring precise, comfortable fit.
  • Key Components: 
    • Acoustically optimized receiver selection—ensures the best sound quality for each user.
    • Biometric calibration—uses cutting-edge methods for perfect fit.1
    • Streamlined workflows—simplifies the fitting process for professionals.

2. Exceptional sound quality and speech understanding

  • AutoSense OS 7.0: Advanced operating system trained with 18x more real-world data for 24% more precise environmental detection.
  • SmartSpeech technology offering better speech understanding in noise.
  • Built-in Motion Sensor improves better speech understanding for people on the move.
  • RogerDirect: direct streaming from Roger microphones, improving speech understanding in group conversations by up to 61%.2
  • APD 3.0: 93% first-fit satisfaction for instant comfort and sound quality.3

3. Market-leading connectivity

  • Bluetooth compatibility: seamless connection with any Bluetooth-enabled device.
  • One-Step pairing: simplified connection process for ease of use.
  • Redesigned myPhonak App: intuitive access to key adjustments with user-friendly language.

4. Intuitive charging made easy

  • Snap and charge System: Effortless drop-in charging with 360-degree magnetic retention.
  • Charging Efficiency: 
    • Fully charged in just three hours.
    • Up to 30 hours of use in calm environments.
    • At least 16 hours of use with eight hours of streaming.

After testing the Virto R Infinio for several weeks, Phonak brand ambassador Robin “Bino” Gillon, a professional skier, passionate biker, skateboarder, and airplane pilot, is thrilled with his new hearing aids. “These hearing aids fit my lifestyle perfectly,” Gillon shared. “Whether I’m wearing a helmet while skiing or biking, or using my headphones as a pilot, the comfort and custom fit of the Virto R Infinio make all the difference.”

Born severely deaf, Gillon has overcome major obstacles to become one of the world’s top freestyle skiers. He started skiing at age two and began winning international competitions by 16, launching him onto the AFP World Tour and FIS World Cup, where he represented his country at the highest level. Since then, he’s ranked among Europe’s top five, the world’s top 30, and earned several international film awards as both a star and producer.

Gillon is particularly impressed with the sound quality and speech understanding. “The tremendous improvement in sound quality and speech understanding has truly transformed my listening experience,” he said. “I can hear conversations clearly, even in noisy environments.”

One of the standout features for Gillon has been the battery life. “I couldn’t believe how long the batteries last! Even on long days filled with phone calls and streaming music, I never have to worry about running out of power,” he added.

Select availability of the hearing aids began Aug. 12 with widespread availability late last month. Availability in other markets begins this month onward.

Since 1947, Phonak is a Sonova brand and has been dedicated to improving the quality of life for people with hearing loss. At Phonak, innovation is not limited to products. The company works to change the conversations surrounding people with hearing loss.

Sonova is a global leader in hearing care solutions—from personal audio devices and wireless communication systems to audiological care services, hearing aids, and cochlear implants. The Group was founded in 1947 and is headquartered in Stäfa, Switzerland. Sonova operates through four businesses – Hearing Instruments, Audiological Care, Consumer Hearing, and Cochlear Implants – and the core brands Phonak, Unitron, AudioNova, Sennheiser (under license) and Advanced Bionics as well as recognized regional brands. The Group’s globally diversified sales and distribution channels serve a growing consumer base in more than 100 countries.

In the 2024-25 financial year, the Group generated CHF 3.9 billion in sales and CHF 547 million in net profit. The company employs 18,000 workers and was ranked No. 12 among the most innovative companies in Europe in 2025 by Fortune, selected from 300 companies across 21 countries and 16 industries.

References
1 Bishop, R. K., Schumacher, D., Hoffman, Ochsner, G., Kleine, T. (2017). Biometric Calibration: improving directionality for Phonak Virto™ B. Phonak Field Study News retrieved from https://www.phonak.com/evidence
2 Thibodeau L. M. (2020). Benefits in Speech Recognition in Noise with Remote Wireless Microphones in Group Settings. Journal of the American Academy of Audiology, 31(6), 404–411. https://doi.org/10.3766/jaaa.19060
3 Stewart, E., Adler, M., Seitz-Paquette, K. (2024) “Adaptive Phonak Digital (APD) 3.0 is the preferred first fit compared to a leading competitor device”. Phonak Field Study News retrieved from https://www.phonak.com/evidence

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