Cochlear Limited today announced FDA approval of the Cochlear Nucleus Nexa System – which it's calling the world's first and only smart cochlear implant system.
Until now, recipients of cochlear implants have been limited to accessing new technology through the external part of their cochlear implant system – the sound processor – and have typically needed a new sound processor to fully experience the benefits of new technology. The new smart Nexa System has upgradeable implant firmware, which will enable Cochlear recipients to access future innovation through both their implant and sound processor.
In addition, the new Nucleus 8 Nexa Sound Processor with the Power Compact rechargeable battery is one of the smallest and lightest sound processors on the market. Through a new algorithm running on the implant called Dynamic Power Management, the Nucleus Nexa System responds to recipients changing needs across the day, all while adapting to maximize battery life. It is 9% smaller and 12% lighter than the Nucleus 8 Sound Processor.
It is also the first implant with internal memory, which enables unique hearing settings (MAPs) to be securely stored in the implant itself which can be easily transferred to any Nucleus Nexa Sound Processor in the future, in case of a lost or damaged sound processor, making it easier to stay connected to sound.
The new system includes the Nucleus Nexa Implant, the Nucleus Kanso 3 Nexa Sound Processor, and the Nucleus 8 Nexa Sound Processor.
The Nucleus Nexa System will be available in the late summer.
