Smartphone-based, affordable custom-fit hearing aids for adults
Official title: Smartphone based custom-fit and low-cost hearing aids manufacturing system
Funded at Xyken, LLC · NIH-11320732 · Data updated 2026-11-12
A small company is testing a smartphone-driven system to scan ears, design personalized hearing aid shells, and print them cheaply for adults with hearing loss.
Quick facts
| Grant type | Sbir 2 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Xyken, LLC NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (McLean, UNITED STATES) |
| Project start | April 15, 2025 |
| Project end | March 31, 2028 |
| Funding year | 2026 |
| Award (this year) | $674,475 |
| NIH project number | 5R44DC022803-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-11320732 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Adults 21 years and older with hearing loss who need a custom-fit hearing aid and have access to a smartphone.
✕Less likely to help
Individuals seeking non-custom or non-electronic hearing solutions may not benefit.
What this research studies
This project aims to let adults with hearing loss get affordable, customized hearing aids by using smartphone ear scans and 3D-printed shells with modular electronics. The process streamlines imaging, shell design, and assembly to reduce cost and improve fit. If successful, users would experience easier access to better-fitting devices, especially in underserved areas. The effort focuses on usability, cost reduction, and scalable production in real-world settings.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: Could make personalized, affordable hearing aids more accessible to many people who currently can’t get them.
How similar studies have gone: Previous SBIR approaches showed potential for cost reductions and customization, with ongoing development in smartphone-assisted devices.
Where this research is happening
-
Xyken, LLC
McLean, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Yi, Steven — Xyken, LLC
- Study coordinator: Yi, Steven
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About this research
- This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
- Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
- For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page.