STÄFA, Switzerland, May 3 -- Phonak Hearing Systems today announced that it will be Official Supplier of Alinghi in its bid to win the America's Cup for the second consecutive time. The 32nd America's Cup - the oldest trophy in sporting history and sailing's most prestigious award - will be held in Valencia, Spain, in 2007. Once again, Alinghi counts on Phonak's technology to enable communication on board its racing yacht. When Alinghi won the last America's Cup in 2003, Phonak's innovative technology had already played a crucial role.
Building on that technology, Phonak, a global leader in designing, developing and distributing technologically advanced wireless and hearing systems, is developing a customized headset and in-the-ear wireless system for Alinghi that ensures communication across the full length of the boat.
To enable effective communication for the team during training and races, Phonak is developing individual earpieces for each crew member. Based on techniques that are also applied in Phonak's state-of-the-art hearing solutions and miniaturized communication systems, these earpieces are optimized to enhance speech intelligibility in the demanding listening situations that exist on board.
"Thanks to Phonak's system, our skipper can send instructions effectively to the individual crew members regardless of the most severe weather conditions," says Olympic legend and Alinghi Sports Director Jochen Schuemann. "We chose Phonak because the company is able to provide us with the most ground-breaking technology in its field, and because its product development teams understand and solve the communications needs that exist in the challenging listening situations on board of our yacht."
Alinghi's success depends on a combination of the most innovative technology, highest standards in terms of quality and design, as well as a pioneering spirit and exceptional teamwork. Phonak's achievements in the hearing industry are built on these same values. For over forty years, Phonak has been dedicated to enabling optimal understanding in the most demanding listening environments.
"Alinghi and Phonak share a passionate commitment towards performance and results on the highest level," expresses Valentin Chapero, CEO of the Phonak Group. "We are proud that we are able to support Alinghi's efforts in its bid to win such a prestigious title as the America's Cup again through our state-of-the-art technology."
About Phonak
The Phonak Group (SWX: PHBN), headquartered in Stäfa, Switzerland, specializes in the design, development, production and global distribution of technologically advanced wireless and hearing systems. As one of the top technology companies in the industry worldwide and with a global staff of over 3,300 employees, Phonak is a major player in the hearing health care market. By combining its expertise in hearing technology with a strong distribution network in over 70 countries, Phonak, along with its customers and business partners, contributes significantly to the quality of life of many people worldwide.
For more information, please visit www.phonak.com
