Rondo: World's first all-in-one cochlear implant design from Medel

Austrian cochlear implant manufacturer Medel has revealed it has won approval for its new design of cochlear implant, which is an all-in-one coil processor and battery pack. It may be worn by all users of Medel impants and is called Rondo. Medel say of the device which is based on the Opus processor and comes with a remote control:

Its single-unit design makes it comfortable, compact and convenient to wear so that users can simply ‘put it on and go.’ For discreet wear, the audio processor disappears easily under the hair. With no ear hook, separate coil or cable, and a fully integrated design, RONDO features fewer parts for enhanced durability. Because the ear is free, RONDO is an ideal audio processor choice for individuals who regularly wear glasses or sunglasses.

Good news for those who want to be discreet. It will be interesting to find out if the change in microphone position has an impact or if Medel have devised method to keep it working when the hair gets a little damp. Hair noise will also be a factor. Here is a picture of one which was leaked a few months ago showing it running on normal hearing aid batteries and being around 1cm deep.

More information here