VALENCIA, Calif.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Advanced Bionics (AB) has released the latest version of their fitting software, SoundWave™3.0. With this current software upgrade, new and existing users of the Naída Bimodal Hearing Solution will have access to full integration of their Naída CI sound processor and the Naida™ Link hearing aid through wireless communication. The wireless exchange of data and the full audio bandwidth between devices has been available to listeners with two Phonak hearing aids, or two Advanced Bionics Naída CI sound processors; however, this is the first-ever network between a cochlear implant and a hearing aid.
The Phonak Naída™ Link is the first hearing aid built specifically to work with a cochlear implant. It includes a specialized fitting algorithm designed to improve understanding1,2,3 and sound quality when the hearing aid is worn in combination with a cochlear implant. The Phonak Naída Link hearing aid and the AB Naída sound processor also share a number of automatic features to help people hear their best in challenging situations1, such as noisy restaurants or windy environments. The devices can also simultaneously receive audio from wireless streamers, allowing bimodal listeners to enjoy the phone, music, and media in both ears. The Naída CI sound processor and Phonak Naída Link are made for each other, making it easy to hear, easy to use, easy to communicate and easy to connect in everyday situations.
Hansjuerg Emch, President of Advanced Bionics and Group Vice President of the Sonova Medical Division, said “Establishing this wireless communication really makes it easier for the listener to succeed in more environments. Even something as basic as changing a program would have required a person to locate the controls on each device independently. Now, a single button pressed on either device initiates the change on both. These shared controls keep the devices synchronized and help people hear their best at all times1,2. We are excited that we can offer this performance boost1 to both existing and new Advanced Bionics cochlear implant recipients.”
“Phonak’s Binaural VoiceStream Technology™, which enables sharing of audio signals through the ear-to-ear network, has proven to benefit understanding in some of the most challenging environments,” said Dr. Hans Mülder, Marketing Director at Phonak Communications AG. “Listeners are better able to understand1 on the phone, in the car, over distances, or in very noisy environments with these features. The Roger technology will seamlessly support both the Naída CI and the Naída Link. The good news is that we are also working together with Advanced Bionics on even more solutions for AB recipients, so that they continue to benefit from the innovation of the two companies working closely together.”
About Advanced Bionics
AB is a global leader in developing the most advanced cochlear implant systems in the world. Founded in 1993 and a subsidiary of the Sonova Group since 2009, AB develops cutting-edge cochlear implant technology that allows recipients to hear their best.
AB offers the most sophisticated cochlear implant system on the market, the HiResolution™ Bionic Ear System, with five times more sound resolution than its competitors, designed to help recipients hear in noisy settings and enjoy the full dimensions of music and tonal languages. With sales in over 50 countries and a proven track record for developing high-performing, state-of-the-art products, AB’s talented, world-wide group of technologists and professionals are driven to succeed, work with integrity and stay firmly committed to quality. Learn more on the Advanced Bionics Expo Page on AudiologyOnline.
About Phonak
Headquartered near Zurich, Switzerland, Phonak, a member of the Sonova Group, was born in 1947 from a passion and dedication to take on the most difficult hearing challenges. Seventy years later, this passion remains.
As the industry’s leading provider, we offer the broadest portfolio of life-changing hearing solutions. From pediatric to profound hearing loss, we remain committed to creating hearing solutions that change people’s lives to thrive socially and emotionally. We believe in changing lives and creating a world where “Life is on” for everyone. For more information, please visit www.phonak.com or the Phonak Expo Page on AudiologyOnline
1. Veugen LC, Chalupper J, Snik AF, van Opstal AJ, Mens LH. (2016) Matching automatic gain control across devices in bimodal cochlear implant users. Ear and Hearing (2015 Dec 10, epub ahead of print)
2. Govaerts PJ, Weekers K, Chalupper J, Scherf F, De Cuelaer G. Preliminary results of a bimodal fitting formula. Presented at 13th International Conference on Cochlear Implants and Other Implantable Auditory Technologies, Munich Germany. June 18-21, 2014.
3. Dorman MF, Gifford RH. (2010) Combining acoustic and electric stimulation in the service of speech recognition. International Journal of Audiology 49(12): 912-919
