Neptune, the World’s First and Only Swimmable Sound Processor for Cochlear Implant Recipients, is Now Approved in Australia.
VALENCIA, Calif., March 25, 2013 – Advanced Bionics (AB), the global leader in cochlear implant technology and a company of the Sonova Group, announced today that it received approval by the Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA) for Neptune™, the world’s first and only swimmable, waterproof cochlear implant sound processor in Australia.
Warranted for use in oceans, lakes and rivers in addition to pools, baths and showers, Neptune is designed to help cochlear implant recipients hear both in and out of the water. Recipients using other products on the market must enclose their processor in a bag or remove their processor when they swim or bathe, which means they can miss out on important safety instructions and opportunities for language development because they are not hearing at that time. Parents of pediatric Neptune recipients will appreciate the bonding and learning that comes with hearing during bath time, as well as the safety of hearing in pools, oceans, rivers and lakes.
Designed after the chic styling of popular consumer electronics, the lightweight Neptune processor also features the industry’s first freestyle™ design, allowing recipients to hear the world of sound with the comfort and beauty of nothing on the ear. As a testament to the polished styling, the Industrial Designers Society of America honored Neptune with a Silver Shaggie award in recognition of excellence in product design. The Neptune freestyle wearing category is new for the cochlear implant industry, giving recipients the ability to choose their wearing style. With the variety of convenient accessories, recipients can wear the Neptune processor anywhere and any way they choose, such as in the hair, on an arm, under a collar, in a pocket—a high level of flexibility not available in the market until now. Neptune also comes in a wide range of fashion-forward colors for matching it to wardrobes or showing it off. And for those who prefer a more discreet look, it can also be easily tucked away. Parents will appreciate the many features included to ensure that Neptune is the perfect choice for small children, including removable controls that make it tamper-proof so that children can always hear their best.
“It’s important to understand the difference between water resistant and waterproof. With our fully submergible technology, recipients can swim under water giving them access to hearing during far more lifestyle activities than products that can only be splashed,” said Hansjuerg Emch, President, Advanced Bionics and Group Vice President of the Sonova Medical Division within which AB resides. “We are proud to be the only company in the
world to offer a truly waterproof sound processor for cochlear implant recipients. With their passion for all kinds of water sports, Australian recipients will appreciate the lifechanging experience of hearing the waves while surfing or a lifeguard’s whistle while swimming.”
Developed for all weather, terrain, ages and lifestyles, Neptune allows for hearing during robust water and sports activities thanks to its unique waterproof design. Recipients can enjoy the peace of mind from hearing while taking part in activities such as boating, waterskiing, jet-skiing, rafting, fishing, parasailing, wind gliding, surfing and snorkeling.
Advanced Bionics was able to develop this industry innovation without compromising hearing performance. Neptune is fully compatible with the most advanced hearing technology, including AutoSoundTM, ClearVoice™*, and HiRes Fidelity 120™*, designed to allow recipients to hear 120 channels for improved music and tonal language perception, only available with AB.
For more information about Neptune, contact a local Advanced Bionics representative, visit AdvancedBionics.com.au or email infoAustralia@advancedbionics.com.
About Advanced Bionics
Advanced Bionics 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 than its competitors, designed to help recipients hear in noisy settings and enjoy the full dimensions of music.
With sales in over 50 countries and a proven track record for developing highperforming, state-of-the-art products, AB’s talented group of technologists and professionals from all over the world are driven to succeed, work with integrity and stay firmly committed to quality.
To learn more about AB and its innovative cochlear implant technology, please visit AdvancedBionics.com or the Advanced Bionics Expo Page on AudiologyOnline.
*Not approved for pediatric use in the United States.
