Audéo III: Completing the PCA Family

Stäfa, Switzerland, 2nd April 2008 - The rollout of the Audéo Personal Communication Assistant (PCA) from Phonak in 2007 was a watershed in the history of hearing devices. Now, with the launch of Audéo III in the economy class, the PCA range offers a device for any budget.

With a comprehensive package of advanced features such as CrystalSound and Digital SurroundZoom, Audéo offers effortless listening combined with maximum clarity and understanding, especially in challenging listening environments. Packaged with the featherweight, avant-garde design, beautiful, fitter-changeable color combinations and extremely small size, these all add up to a device that is not only incredibly discreet and comfortable in use but also totally irresistible.

Designed for a new generation

Looking nothing like a traditional hearing instrument, Audéo initiated a shift in the perception of hearing systems that was assisted by a particularly effective, daring and attention-grabbing marketing campaign. Audéo offers a new generation of clients a desirable, must-have accessory designed to meet both their high performance and style/cosmetic demands. As Alexander Zschokke, Vice President Marketing explains, "Audéo really shook things up with an approach never used in this industry, because we all know the Baby Boomers are resistant to this industry's traditional products and marketing approaches."

With the introduction of Audéo III in the economy class, the PCA family is now complete with an offering for every budget. All the benefits of Canal Receiver Technology (CRT), including a smooth frequency response and freedom from occlusion are available in Audéo IX, V and III.

A whole new world of hearing

Phonak CEO Valentin Chapero states, "Audéo is a big hit and has changed the way the world looks at our products. In addition to the new, younger market, many traditional clients also love Audéo and really respond to its destigmatizing look and fresh, bold marketing campaign."

The full Audéo PCA family is an unprecedented opportunity for hearing care professionals to amplify their business, and will attract not only traditional clients but also a virtually untapped market of younger, first-time users.

About Phonak

Headquartered near Zurich, Switzerland, Phonak has developed, produced and globally distributed state-of-the-art hearing systems and wireless devices for over 50 years. The combination of expertise in hearing technology, mastery in acoustics and strong cooperation with hearing care professionals allows Phonak to significantly improve people's hearing ability and speech understanding and therefore their quality of life.

Phonak offers a complete range of digital hearing instruments, along with complementary wireless communication systems. With 2'500 employees worldwide, Phonak drives innovation and sets new industry benchmarks regarding miniaturization and performance.

For more information, visit https://www.phonak-us.com/ or the Phonak Web Channel on Audiology Online.