myZound Hearing aid -- smartphone-based hearing support with individual audio optimization

Purpose and goal

The purpose and goal with this project has been to investigate market- and technical pre-requisites regarding development of a Hearing Aid (HA)- similar feature aimed for SmartPhones (SP). Detailed knowledge about the relevant market, competition and business models has been obtained. Additionally, the project has gained important information regarding prioritized stakeholders interest and requirements. Technical analysis has been executed, aimed to investigate alternative possible solutions, technical challenges, limitations and quality requirements.

Expected results and effects

Project outcome is e.g. detailed market knowledge. There are req’s for prod. differentiation within the SP vendor’s industry linked to the audio area. Their interest of the intended feature will increase forthcoming. The HA industry will be impacted. End-users are positive to the feature, but SP vendors are in a pending mode. The End-user interest will stepwise create pressure on the vendors. The feature should be a complement rather than a replacement for HA’s. A stepwise increase of functionality and quality is the most realistic approach, due to the significant techn. complexity.

Planned approach and implementation

Three project work packages: 1)Business- and marketstudy Investigating/collection of info- and fact material (publ. sources), analysis of material and conclusions of analysis. 2)Stakeholder study Meetings with stakeholders were their interest, req’s and viewpoints have been discussed regarding the intended feature. Analysis and summary of discussions. EU and SP vendors have been prioritized. 3)Tech investigation Analysis of tech. req’s, pre-requisites and design matters for the intended feature. Analysis of HA and its key/adv functions. Feature req’s spec. (first step).