Cochlear Limited Unveils the First Made for iPhone Compatible Cochlear Implant Sound Processor
The world’s first Made for iPhone compatible cochlear implant sound processor is here. Cochlear Limited has recently unveiled the Cochlear Nucleus 7 Sound Processor. The surgically implantable device was approved by the FDA in June.
The surgically implantable device is controlled by the iOS device itself and doesn't require a companion app.
Cochlear implants are used by people with moderate to profound hearing loss. The technology works by detecting sounds that are then turned into electrical signals by the Nucleus 7 Sound Processor that are sent to the brain by the electrode placed in the inner ear.
Chris Smith, Cochlear Chief Executive Officer and President, welcomes the FDA approval of the Nucleus 7 Sound Processor, explaining that Cochlear is proud to give people with moderate to profound hearing loss access to mobile technology like never before.
“The approval of the Nucleus 7 Sound Processor is a turning point for people with hearing loss, opening the door for them to make phone calls, listen to music in high-quality stereo sound, watch videos and have FaceTime calls streamed directly to their cochlear implant,” explains Smith. “This new sound processor builds on our long-standing commitment to help more people with hearing loss connect with others and live a full life.”
While the Nucleus 7 companion app will allow users to customize their hearing, it’s not necessary to use the device as everything is controlled directly by the phone.
The sound processor will officially be available in September in the United States for people looking to receive a cochlear implant. Some users who currently have the technology installed will also be able to upgrade starting in October.
