Heston Saldanha, the General Manager of Sennheiser Consumer Division MEA, says the consumer hearing business is on the cusp of significant transformation

Which product categories do you offer under the brand license deal with Sennheiser?
We proudly offer a range of premium products that cater to discerning audio enthusiasts and consumers alike. These categories include premium headphones, which encompass both everyday listening and professional-grade models designed for the utmost audio fidelity. In the audiophile sector, our products are crafted to deliver unparalleled sound quality, bringing the concert hall experience into the personal space of the listener.

Additionally, we offer innovative hearing solutions that integrate cutting-edge technology to enhance everyday hearing through devices that users are proud to wear. Our soundbars, particularly noted for their advanced AMBEO technology, transform living spaces into immersive sound environments, making every seat in the room the best seat.

This product range demonstrates our commitment to enhancing audio experiences in diverse aspects of consumer lives, whether they are listening to music, enjoying cinema at home, or requiring enhanced hearing in day-to-day interactions. Through these offerings, we embody our mission to provide remarkable sound experiences that not only meet but exceed our customers’ expectations in terms of quality, innovation, and usability.

What market trends do you foresee for the consumer hearing business?
The consumer hearing business is on the cusp of significant transformation, driven by rapid advancements in technology and shifting consumer expectations. Firstly, the demand for superior audio quality in truly wireless earbuds continues to grow, with the closed-wearing style preferred for its sound isolation and acoustic quality. However, open-form factor earbuds are also gaining popularity, favoured for their comfort and situational awareness, indicating a diverse market with varied consumer needs. Sustainability is another critical trend shaping the industry.

As consumers become more environmentally conscious, they are demanding products that are not only high-performing but also responsibly manufactured and sourced. This trend is further bolstered by tightening regulatory frameworks around environmental impact, pushing companies to innovate in eco-friendly materials and production techniques.

Furthermore, the integration of sophisticated software and firmware is revolutionizing product capabilities, particularly with features such as Auracast broadcast audio and enhanced hearing functionalities being embedded directly into consumer headphones and earbuds. This blend of high-quality audio with smart technology is setting new standards in the consumer electronics market, pointing towards a future where headphones and hearing devices are increasingly multifunctional and integral to daily life.

Sonova is big into audiophiles. How big of a player are you and do you plan to enter new markets this year?
Audiophile quality has been at the core of our brand identity, tracing back to our roots in delivering superior sound experiences. Our dedication to this segment has established us as a significant player in the audiophile market. We continually strive to push the boundaries of sound excellence, ensuring that each product not only meets but sets new benchmarks in audio performance. Looking forward, we are not resting on our laurels.

This year, we plan to expand our reach by entering new demographic markets. Our strategy includes tailoring our offerings to cater to the unique tastes and preferences of different regions, ensuring that our products resonate locally while maintaining global quality standards. This expansion is not just about spreading our geographic footprint but also about deepening our understanding and engagement with diverse audiophile communities worldwide.

Sonova is also big into hearing aids and implants. How big of a player are you in this region and do you plan to enter new markets this year?
As a global leader in innovative hearing care solutions, Sonova has established a robust presence in the market for hearing aids and implants. Our products are renowned for their advanced technology and the transformative impact they have on individuals’ lives. Although the Middle East region does not currently have our hearing category, we are assessing the market and user needs to potentially introduce our advanced hearing solutions.

Our approach is always guided by a deep commitment to enhancing hearing health and providing solutions that empower individuals to lead full and rich lives. Entering new markets involves careful consideration of local healthcare systems, regulatory environments, and consumer needs, ensuring that our offerings are well-suited and accessible to those who need them most. As we look to the future, our focus remains on innovation and accessibility, aiming to bring our state-of-the-art hearing solutions to new regions and demographics, ultimately broadening our impact and reinforcing our position as a key player in the global hearing care industry.