Rechargeable in-ear device combines four listening modes, an A2 sound-processing chip and a battery rated for up to 24 hours of operation
SCOTTSDALE, Arizona, September 19, 2026 — Audien Hearing has announced the launch of the Atom 2 over-the-counter hearing aid, designed for adults with perceived mild-to-moderate hearing loss. As Media Relations, Andrea Toch stated, "Our goal has always been to make hearing care feel more human, approachable, and accessible." The rechargeable in-ear device includes four listening modes, the company’s A2 sound-processing chip and a battery rated by Audien for up to 24 hours of operation.
The Atom 2 is positioned within the U.S. over-the-counter hearing aid category established for adults aged 18 and older who perceive that they have mild-to-moderate hearing loss. Unlike prescription hearing aids, OTC hearing aids can be purchased without obtaining a prescription, medical examination or fitting by an audiologist, although consumers remain free to seek professional hearing care when they choose.
Audien’s current product information describes the Atom 2 as an in-ear rechargeable device with multiple listening settings intended to provide users with choices for different environments. The company also supplies different ear-tip sizes so users can select a fit appropriate to their ears.
The product should be considered according to the intended-use limits of the OTC hearing aid category rather than as a universal solution for every form of hearing difficulty. People with more significant hearing loss, certain warning signs or other ear-related concerns may need professional evaluation.
Four Listening Modes Provide Adjustable Settings
One of the principal product characteristics of the Atom 2 is its four listening modes. Different environments can create different listening challenges. A quiet conversation presents a different acoustic setting from a busier location with substantial background sound.
Preset modes give users a method of changing the device’s listening configuration without requiring professional programming for every environment. The availability of multiple modes is a product feature and does not guarantee a particular degree of hearing improvement for every user.
Hearing ability varies significantly, and an OTC hearing aid that is suitable for one consumer may not be appropriate for another. Audien advises consumers to follow the product instructions and evaluate whether the device suits their perceived level of hearing difficulty.
A2 Sound Chip Forms the Device’s Processing Platform
Audien identifies its A2 chip as the sound-processing platform used in the Atom 2. Digital processing is a central component of modern hearing devices because incoming sound must be captured, processed and delivered to the ear according to the device’s programmed characteristics.
The company’s identification of the A2 chip provides consumers with product-level information about the technology used in the Atom 2. It should not, however, be interpreted as an independent clinical claim that the chip produces the same result for every individual.
Factors such as the type and degree of hearing loss, ear anatomy, device fit and the listening environment can all influence user experience.
Rechargeable Battery Is Rated for Up to 24 Hours
Audien states that the Atom 2 rechargeable battery provides up to 24 hours of use. Rechargeable devices allow consumers to charge the hearing aid rather than regularly replacing disposable batteries.
The quoted battery duration is a manufacturer specification and represents an “up to” rating. Actual battery performance can depend on usage, charging habits, battery age and environmental conditions. Users should follow the current charging instructions supplied with the device.
A rechargeable design can also reduce the need to handle small disposable batteries, although consumers should evaluate that convenience according to their own preferences and needs.
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OTC Hearing Aid Category Expanded Consumer Access
The U.S. OTC hearing aid category became effective in October 2022 following federal rulemaking intended to create a regulated class of hearing aids that adults with perceived mild-to-moderate hearing loss can purchase without a prescription. The category applies to adults aged 18 and older.
OTC hearing aids are different from products marketed simply as sound amplifiers. They are regulated medical devices intended to address perceived mild-to-moderate hearing loss. Consumers should still understand the limits of self-selection.
People experiencing substantial hearing difficulty, sudden changes, significant asymmetry between ears, persistent ear discomfort or other concerning symptoms should consider evaluation by an appropriate healthcare professional.
Atom 2 Uses an In-Ear Form Factor
The Atom 2 is designed to sit within the ear rather than behind it. Device style can matter to consumers for several reasons, including comfort, handling, visibility and personal preference.
An in-ear design can create a compact profile, but proper fit remains important. Audien provides multiple ear-tip options with the Atom 2 so users can select among different sizes.
A poor fit can affect both comfort and the way sound is delivered. Consumers should therefore follow fitting instructions rather than assuming that one tip size is appropriate for every user. People who experience pain or other problems using an in-ear device should discontinue use and seek appropriate guidance.
Consumers Should Understand Mild-to-Moderate Hearing Loss
The OTC category is specifically intended for adults who perceive that they have mild-to-moderate hearing loss. A person in this category may notice difficulty understanding conversation in some environments or feel that people speak too quietly.
More substantial hearing difficulty requires different consideration. Consumers who cannot hear speech even in quiet conditions, struggle to hear loud sounds or have other indications that their hearing difficulty may be more severe should seek professional assessment rather than assuming an OTC device is sufficient.
The availability of OTC products expands choice, but it does not eliminate the role of audiologists, physicians and other hearing-care professionals.
Audien Continues Expanding Its Product Range
Atom 2 is one of several devices offered within Audien Hearing’s current product portfolio. The company has introduced different models to address varying consumer preferences involving form factor, controls and features.
That approach reflects a broader change in the hearing-care market following the creation of the OTC category. Consumers who previously faced a more limited purchase pathway now have access to additional devices through online and retail channels.
The greater range of choices also makes product information more important. Users should compare intended use, battery design, device fit, controls and support before selecting a hearing aid.
Retail Expansion Has Increased Audien’s Presence
During 2026, Audien continued expanding its U.S. retail distribution. The company announced in April that several of its products had become available through more than 1,000 Target stores, bringing Audien’s reported total retail footprint to more than 11,000 U.S. locations at the time of the announcement.
Retail availability gives consumers another way to encounter OTC hearing devices outside specialist hearing clinics. It also reinforces the need for clear labeling because consumers may select a device independently.
Company Emphasizes Access
“Our goal has always been to make hearing care feel more human, approachable, and accessible,” Audien Hearing Chief Executive Officer Laurie Ann Goldman said in a company statement issued earlier in 2026. That statement reflects Audien’s broader positioning in the OTC hearing category.
Accessibility in this context includes the ability of eligible adults to purchase hearing aids directly while still retaining the option to seek professional care. Audien also provides hearing-related support resources through its company channels.
Official Website: https://getaudienatom2.com/
Professional Hearing Care Still Has an Important Role
OTC availability should not be interpreted as meaning that professional hearing evaluation is unnecessary in every case. Some consumers may prefer an assessment before selecting a device, while others may discover after trying an OTC hearing aid that they need further assistance.
Professional evaluation can identify the type and severity of hearing loss and help determine whether additional medical attention is appropriate.
Consumers should also seek care if they experience warning signs that could indicate another underlying issue. The Atom 2 is not positioned as a substitute for evaluation in situations that fall outside the intended OTC category.
Responsible Product Communication
A hearing device announcement should distinguish manufacturer specifications from individualized medical outcomes. For Atom 2, the verifiable product characteristics include the in-ear format, four listening modes, A2 sound-processing chip, rechargeable design and company-rated battery duration.
Those specifications can be communicated directly without claiming that every user will achieve the same result.
Individual experience can depend on fit, hearing profile and listening environment. This release therefore does not promise a guaranteed level of hearing improvement.
About Audien Hearing
Audien Hearing is a U.S.-based provider of over-the-counter hearing products designed for adults with perceived mild-to-moderate hearing loss. Its current lineup includes multiple device families and form factors, including Atom-series and ION-series products. The company distributes its products online and through a growing U.S. retail network.
Audien’s broader company positioning emphasizes making hearing products more accessible and approachable while operating within the intended-use requirements of the U.S. OTC hearing aid category. The Atom 2 is an in-ear rechargeable OTC hearing aid featuring four listening modes, an A2 sound-processing chip and company-rated battery operation of up to 24 hours.
Media Contact
Andrea Toch, Media Relations
Audien Hearing
Phone: 602-405-8335
Press: press@audienhearing.com
Address: 7350 E Evans Rd Bldg, Scottsdale, AZ 85260
Consumer Notice: Over-the-counter hearing aids are intended for adults aged 18 and older with perceived mild-to-moderate hearing loss. Consumers with more significant hearing difficulties, sudden hearing changes, ear pain or other concerning symptoms should seek evaluation from an appropriate healthcare professional.
