Valencia, Calif — Advanced Bionics (AB) announced that it has received approval in the United States and Canada for the Neptune cochlear implant (CI) sound processor. The company says that Neptune is the world’s first and only swimmable, waterproof CI sound processor, as well as the first to offer freestyle wearable design.

Typically, CI patients must remove their sound processor before swimming and bathing. AB says that Neptune is designed to help cochlear implant recipients hear in and out of the water, allowing them to hear not only conversations, but also important safety instructions.

Neptune also reportedly features the hearing industry’s first freestyle™ design, a new wearing category for the cochlear implant industry. The design gives CI recipients the ability to choose their wearing style, allowing patients to place the Neptune processor in the hair, on an arm, under a collar, or even in a pocket.

Neptune also comes in a wide range of colors for matching it to wardrobes or showing it off. For those who prefer a more discreet look, it can be easily tucked away.

Parents may also appreciate Neptune’s child friendly features, including removable controls that make Neptune tamper-proof.

Neptune is fully compatible with AB’s other hearing technology, including ClearVoice™, HiRes Fidelity 120™, and AutoSound™.

SOURCE: Advanced Bionics (AB)