Advanced Bionics’ Neptune sound processor is intended for bathing and swimming – and not just in bathtubs and pools anymore.

[AB] – Valencia-based Advanced Bionics, the global leader in cochlear implant technology and a company of the Sonova Group, announced Tuesday that Neptune, the world’s first and only swimmable, waterproof sound processor, has passed rigorous internal testing and is now warranted for use in oceans, lakes and rivers. The award-winning Neptune processor has already been designated for use in pools, baths and showers. Neptune comes compatible with the AquaMic, the industry’s only waterproof headpiece and microphone, which passed the same rigorous testing. All Neptune processors and AquaMic headpieces qualify for this warranted use. Further fulfilling AB’s commitment to delivering the best in quality and durability, AB cochlear implant recipients can now enjoy the opportunity to hear in every water environment.

Recipients using other products on the market remove their processor when they swim or bathe, which means they miss out on important safety instructions and opportunities for language development because they are not hearing during those times. Parents of pediatric recipients using Neptune processors 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.

“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, 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. It’s incredibly rewarding when our recipients tell us how it changed their lives to hear 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. Now with the ability to use the Neptune processor in all water environments, recipients can enjoy the peace of mind from hearing while taking part in a wide variety of additional activities beyond swimming and bathing, such as boating, waterskiing, jet-skiing, rafting, fishing, parasailing, wind gliding, surfing and snorkeling.

“I have been going whitewater rafting with friends for the past five years. I always had to sit directly behind someone and follow them to know how to paddle. This year, I wore one of my Neptune processors and was able to hear the river guide yell out the commands myself!” said AB recipient Steven Hecht. “Not only did I get splashed while going through the class four rapids, I jumped out of the boat into the rapids with my Neptune processor on the entire time. It really made a huge difference to be able to hear while rafting!”

Advanced Bionics was able to develop this industry innovation without compromising hearing performance. Neptune is fully compatible with the most advanced hearing technology, including ClearVoice*, HiRes Fidelity 120* and AutoSound, which are also available from AB.* These sophisticated sound processing strategies are designed to deliver the best hearing performance in real-world environments where recipients would otherwise struggle, such as busy offices, loud playgrounds, music recitals and crowded restaurants.

For more information about Neptune, contact a local Advanced Bionics representative or visit 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 sound resolution 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 high-performing, 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.