Insect-inspired miniature microphone ‘could revolutionise hearing aids’

Scottish researchers are working on a new type of miniature directional microphone that could be used to create more precise hearing aid systems.

Developed by the University of Strathclyde and the Medical Research Council/Chief Scientist Office (MRC/CSO) Institute for Hearing Research at the Glasgow Royal Infirmary, the device features an innovative design inspired by the ears of insects.

This system would be able to reduce or control unwanted noises by focusing the hearing aid on only the sound arriving from in front of the user. It would also make it easier for users to distinguish the distance across which the sound has travelled.

Previously, the size, weight and power requirements of directional microphones made them ill-suited to use in hearing aids, meaning the microphone technology used in these devices has remained essentially unchanged for decades.

Dr Bill Whitmer, a scientist at the MRC/CSO Institute for Hearing Research, said: "These recent breakthroughs in microphones could revolutionise hearing aid design, and could result in real advances in the quality of support offered to those affected by hearing loss."

Currently, it is estimated that around four million people with hearing loss in the UK could benefit from wearing hearing aids, but do not currently do so.