Tinnitus was a focus of clinical education, research and discussion at the American Academy of Audiology’s Annual Convention 2026 in San Antonio, Texas. The meeting brought together audiologists, researchers, physicians and other professionals to explore developments in tinnitus and decreased sound tolerance.

Attendees had opportunities to engage with current approaches to tinnitus assessment, management and patient care. The programme reflected the complexity of tinnitus and the growing range of tools available to clinicians, from evidence-based clinical frameworks and counselling strategies to emerging digital and technology-based interventions.

The convention included sessions examining stepped-care approaches to tinnitus and the clinical management of sound hypersensitivity, including hyperacusis, misophonia, noise sensitivity and phonophobia. Other sessions explored the patient experience, including how individuals with misophonia seek support and strategies for helping patients move from anxiety and distress towards greater confidence in managing their symptoms.

Technology and emerging approaches were another major theme. Presentations covered real-world evidence relating to Lenire, alongside sessions on bimodal stimulation, biometric tracking, personalised sound therapy, smartphone-delivered cognitive behavioural therapy and other digital interventions. Sessions on emerging technologies highlighted the growing interest in personalised and data-informed approaches, while presentations on the Levo Gen 2 system explored approaches combining tinnitus-mimic stimulation during sleep with structured desensitisation.

AAA 2026 also provided a forum for discussion of clinical standards. A presentation on the Guidance Statement on Diagnosis and Management of Tinnitus brought together contributors from a range of clinical and academic settings, reflecting ongoing collaborative efforts to strengthen evidence-based tinnitus care.

Research and clinical education also addressed the future direction of the field. The James Jerger Career Award Honoree session, Tinnitus, Hyperacusis, Misophonia: Where Are We Now?, considered progress in the field as well as important challenges that remain.

Overall, the tinnitus programme at AAA 2026 reflected the continuing momentum of research and clinical development across the audiology community. From established clinical approaches to emerging technologies and patient-centred outcomes, the convention highlighted both the progress being made and the questions that remain. These discussions form part of a wider international effort to advance the understanding and care of tinnitus and decreased sound tolerance.

For more information about the American Academy of Audiology, visit audiology.org.