Dialog Launches Petralex, Sri Lanka’s 1st Fully Localised Hearing Enhancement Mobile App

Dialog Axiata PLC, Sri Lanka’s premier connectivity provider, in partnership with Petralex, the global leader in smartphone-based hearing enhancement solutions, announced the launch of the Petralex app for all popular mobile devices. Petralex allows users to utilise their smartphone with any wired or Bluetooth headset as a hearing enhancement tool. The revolutionary app is an affordable and accessible solution targeted at those experiencing hearing impairment or concerned that they may be experiencing hearing loss.

On first use, Petralex facilitates hearing tests using a headset or Bluetooth device, where the app will emit multiple frequencies to identify the most correct frequencies required by the user, and thereafter amplifies the sound accordingly. The app actively eliminates unwanted background noises, thereby increasing speech intelligibility. Unlike traditional hearing aids, the need for changing one more battery is negated as the mobile app is enabled by the phone’s battery life. The solution gives those who have hearing difficulties a tool they will feel comfortable using, with familiar day-to-day devices attracting no extra attention and requiring no additional purchase, allowing such persons to receive the support they require in a manner they are most comfortable with. The app is not intended to substitute professional testing and professionally fitted commercial hearing aids.

Commenting, Shayam Majeed, Group Chief Corporate Officer of Dialog Axiata PLC said, “Dialog is proud to launch Petralex with special localisations for Sri Lanka - complete with full support for Sinhala and Tamil languages, and special reduced payments directly through familiar Dialog billing channels. With this, we intend to further extend our support for marginalised communities, with affordable and accessible solutions to enrich and enhance their lives, allowing them equal access to educational, professional and everyday opportunities while actively engaging in life’s important moments. The app also works to raise awareness on the importance of regular hearing checks to ensure hearing loss is identified and addressed early.”

While the app was initially available on the Google Play Store and Apple App Store for LKR 1,900 monthly, the partnership between Dialog and Petralex has successfully allowed for the introduction of the app to the Sri Lankan market at a subsidised rate of only LKR 180 +taxes per month. Postpaid customers also have the option to safely and securely subscribe to the app using Dialog’s ‘Add to Bill’ feature – a convenient method of payment without the hassle of adding credit or debit card information.