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Full Review
I’ve spent time testing the Oticon Intent hearing aids, Oticon’s current flagship prescription hearing aids, and they represent one of the most meaningful upgrades we’ve seen from Oticon in recent years.
Oticon Intent builds on Oticon’s long history of using artificial intelligence in hearing aids — but this generation goes further by introducing four onboard sensors designed to personalize sound in real time based on how you move, where you look, and what you’re trying to listen to.
In this review, I’ll walk through design, battery life, Bluetooth connectivity, sound quality, and how Oticon Intent compares to other premium prescription hearing aids.
Prefer to watch? Here’s our full video review below — or keep scrolling for our detailed written breakdown.
Oticon Intent Hearing Aids Review: Personalized Sound Powered by Intelligent Sensors
What Are Oticon Intent Hearing Aids?
Oticon Intent is a prescription hearing aid, meaning you’ll need to work with a licensed hearing care professional for fitting and programming. These are not over-the-counter devices.
Oticon is owned by Demant, one of the largest hearing aid manufacturers in the world, and has long been known for its research-driven approach to sound processing.
Before Intent, Oticon’s flagship product was Oticon Real. While Intent shares a similar behind-the-ear receiver-in-canal (RIC) design, nearly everything inside the device has been updated.
For users who prefer custom in-ear hearing aids, Oticon also offers Oticon Own, which remains their flagship in-the-ear model.
Design and Comfort: Smaller and More Discreet
Oticon Intent uses a receiver-in-canal (RIC) design:
- Small device behind the ear
- Thin wire over the ear
- Speaker inside the ear canal
Compared to Oticon Real, Intent is slightly shorter and thicker, making it a bit more discreet overall. It comes in several colors, including beige, silver, black, and a new blue option.
The fit feels comfortable for all-day wear, and the design remains subtle behind the ear.
Battery Life and Charging: Faster Charging for Busy Days
Oticon Intent features an updated rechargeable battery system designed for convenience.
Key charging improvements include:
- 15 minutes on the charger = ~4 hours of use
- 30 minutes = ~8 hours of use
- Full charge in about 2 hours
On a full charge, most users can expect around 20 hours of battery life, depending on streaming and listening environments.
One change worth noting: Oticon removed the in-office battery replacement option. If the rechargeable battery needs service, the hearing aids must be sent back to the manufacturer.
Bluetooth Connectivity: Updated for the Future
Oticon Intent introduces a major Bluetooth upgrade by moving to Bluetooth Low Energy Audio, aligning with other premium hearing aids like ReSound Nexia and Signia IX.
This improves:
- Connection stability
- Streaming performance
- Auracast™ compatible, which allows audio streaming in public spaces like airports and theaters
Oticon Intent also supports:
- Made for iPhone (MFi)
- ASHA for Android
- Hands-free calling on select Android devices (a major improvement for Android users)
This Bluetooth overhaul helps resolve previous stability issues and positions Intent as a future-ready hearing aid platform.
Sound Quality and Artificial Intelligence
Oticon has used artificial intelligence in its hearing aids for years. Their sound processing is built on a deep neural network trained with over 12 million real-world sounds recorded in everyday environments.
With Oticon Intent, that same AI foundation remains — but the real innovation comes from the addition of four intelligent sensors that continuously adapt sound based on your behavior.
The Four Sensors That Power Oticon Intent
Oticon Intent uses four onboard sensors working together:
- Body Movement Sensor - Detects whether you’re walking or sitting. When moving, the hearing aids open up awareness around you. When seated, they focus more on speech in front.
- Head Movement Sensor - Tracks where you’re looking, helping the hearing aids follow conversations as your attention shifts between speakers.
- Speech Sensor - Identifies speech versus background noise using Oticon’s deep neural network.
- Environmental Sensor - Analyzes the room itself — echo, noise levels, music, and acoustics.
Together, these sensors create a personalized listening experience that adapts in real time to what you’re doing and what you’re trying to hear.
This allows Oticon Intent to deliver different sound behavior for different people in the same room — something previous generations couldn’t do.
Personalized Listening in Real Life
Imagine three people entering a busy room:
- One is walking and scanning for familiar faces
- One is seated in a one-on-one conversation
- One is moving between group discussions
With Oticon Intent, each person receives a different sound profile tailored to their movements and listening intent.
This level of personalization is what makes Oticon Intent a meaningful upgrade rather than a small iteration.
Oticon Companion App: Easy Navigation with Personalized Control
Oticon Intent pairs with the Oticon Companion app, available in both the Apple App Store and Google Play Store. Your hearing care professional will typically help set this up during your fitting, and once connected, the app is straightforward to navigate — even for first-time hearing aid users.
From the home screen, you can quickly see your current listening program and battery status, making it easy to manage your devices throughout the day. Switching between programs takes just a tap, allowing you to move seamlessly from automatic mode into custom listening environments as your surroundings change.
Within the app, you can:
- Adjust overall volume
- Balance sound between ears
- Switch between listening programs
- Create personalized programs for specific environments
- Fine-tune comfort and clarity
- Access support resources
- Locate lost hearing aids using “Find My Hearing Aids”
You can also work with your hearing care professional to set up remote support, allowing for adjustments without always needing to return to the clinic.
While Oticon Intent’s intelligent sensors handle much of the sound processing automatically, the Companion app gives you meaningful control when you want it — helping you tailor your listening experience to your preferences while keeping the interface simple and approachable.
Overall, the Oticon Companion app adds real value by combining ease of use with practical customization, making it easier to get the most out of Oticon Intent in everyday life.
How Oticon Intent Fits in Today’s Hearing Aid Market
Oticon Intent is a premium prescription hearing aid designed for people who want advanced personalization, future-ready Bluetooth, and intelligent sound processing.
Compared to other top-tier devices, Intent stands out for:
- Real-time sensor-driven personalization
- Strong AI-based sound processing
- Improved Bluetooth stability
- Fast charging
If you’re deciding between Oticon Intent and other leading hearing aids, feel free to get in touch with our team and work with a local hearing professional to decide what is right for you.
Final Verdict
Oticon Intent represents a significant step forward in hearing aid technology.
Rather than focusing solely on louder sound or stronger noise reduction, Oticon has built a system that adapts to your movement, your environment, and your listening goals in real time.
If you’re looking for a premium prescription hearing aid that emphasizes personalization, intelligent sound processing, and future-ready connectivity, Oticon Intent is absolutely worth exploring.
At Soundly, we consider Oticon Intent one of the most advanced hearing aids available — and a strong option for anyone seeking a truly adaptive listening experience. All prescription devices purchased through Soundly include a free hearing test, 60‑day returns, a three‑year warranty, loss and damage coverage, and ongoing support.
If you’re ready to explore Oticon Intent, we’d love to help you schedule an appointment, compare technology levels, and choose the right pair of hearing aids for your needs.
Ready to start? Click “Find Local Care” at the top of the page or get in touch via text or phone at 1 (833) SOUNDLY.
Thanks for taking the time to learn more—and good luck with your research.
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