When to upgrade
With a new sound processor, you can enjoy the benefits of the latest hearing technology. Learn more about when to consider a next-generation device.
What you'll find on this page
- An overview of when to upgrade your sound processor
- The key benefits of upgrading
- What to do if you lose or damage your sound processor
When should you upgrade your sound processor?
As you progress through life, your hearing needs may change with your circumstances. Whether you’re studying or navigating the workplace, juggling family, or planning for retirement, a new sound processor can help improve your hearing experience so you can get the most out of each stage of life.
To find out if a new sound processor can better meet your hearing or lifestyle needs, talk to your hearing health professional.
Our passion for your progress drives us to continually innovate our sound processors to better meet your needs now and into the future.
With advances in hearing technology and features like ForwardFocus†, a next-generation sound processor is designed to provide clearer sound, even in noisy environments.1,2 New features can provide easier ways to connect with others online, on the phone and in person.
A smaller, more comfortable design, improvements in battery life and accessories like the Aqua+ are more great reasons to consider a sound processor upgrade.
A lost or irreparably damaged sound processor can be stressful, but there are options to get you hearing again. If a replacement device is no longer available, you may choose to upgrade to a next-generation sound processor. Our latest sound processors come with improved hearing technology and additional features, as well as a new global warranty.
The ‘Find my processor’ feature in your new sound processor’s Smart App can help you locate your misplaced device via a compatible smartphone*.
As technology progresses, sourcing parts for the manufacture, service and repair of older sound processors becomes increasingly difficult. Next-generation sound processors not only work with your existing implant,** but they offer more advanced technology to help you hear more clearly and better connect with what you love.
If your older generation sound processor needs to be repaired, contact Cochlear to check the service period for your device; it may still be covered by warranty or a service agreement. Talk to your clinician or health insurance provider to see if you are eligible for a new sound processor.
NDIS funding for Cochlear™ sound processor upgrades and accessories
Are you:
- Aged between 26 and 64 years of age?
- An Australian citizen or permanent resident?
If so, you can apply for a plan with the NDIS, which may fund additional, reasonable, and necessary hearing supports.3 Before the age of 65, if you have an approved plan with the NDIS, you may be eligible for funding for:
- Future Cochlear™ sound processor upgrades
- Cochlear™ accessories and parts, such as TV streamers, Aqua+ and Mini Mics
- Ongoing care and maintenance costs
To apply for a NDIS plan, follow these steps below:
- Go to the NDIS Access Request Form
- Complete Section 1
- Ask your hearing healthcare professional to complete Section 2
- Email your completed form to NAT@ndis.gov.au
Learn more about upgrading your device
If you're ready to upgrade - or just beginning to explore next-generation technology, choose your device type here to learn more.
“The improvements from one model to the next are very noticeable… there is an incredible improvement in the audio quality.”
- Felipe, Cochlear™ Baha® System recipient
More information
Disclaimer
Please seek advice from your health professional about treatments for hearing loss. Outcomes may vary, and your health professional will advise you about the factors which could affect your outcome. Always follow the directions for use. Not all products are available in all countries. Please contact your local Cochlear representative for product information.
For a full list of Cochlear’s trademarks, please visit our Terms of Use page.
In Australia, Cochlear™ Nucleus® implant systems are intended for the treatment of moderately severe to profound hearing loss.
In Australia, Baha® bone conduction implant systems are intended for the treatment of moderate to profound hearing loss.
In Australia, the Cochlear™ Osia® System is indicated for patients with conductive, mixed hearing loss and single-sided sensorineural deafness (SSD) aged 10 years and above with up to 55 decibels sensorineural hearing loss. Patients should have sufficient bone quality and quantity to support successful implant placement. Surgery is required to use this product. Any surgical procedure carries risk.
For Cochlear™ Nucleus®, Osia® and Baha® systems: This product is not available for purchase by the general public. For information on funding and reimbursement please contact your health care professional.
Any testimonial featured on this website is intended for an Australian audience only.
† ForwardFocus is clinician-enabled within the Custom Sound Pro fitting software and can be user-controlled with the Cochlear Nucleus Smart App. In the Nucleus 8 Sound Processor, ForwardFocus is also available as an automated program. It is only available with the Cochlear Nucleus® 7, Nucleus 8 and Kanso® 2 sound processors.
* For information regarding the compatibility of Cochlear’s sound processors with Apple or Android devices, visit www.cochlear.com/compatibility.
** Nucleus 8 and Kanso sound processors are not compatible with the Nucleus 22 (N22) Implant.
Cochlear, Hear now. And always, Nucleus, Kanso, Baha and the elliptical logo are either trademarks or registered trademarks of Cochlear Bone Anchored Solutions AB or Cochlear Limited.
References
- Cochlear Limited D1376556 Acceptance and Performance with the Nucleus 7 Cochlear Implant System with Adult Recipients (2020 Jan).
- Cochlear Limited. D1817793. CLTD5754 Clinical Investigation Report (2022 Jul).
- Hearing supports [Internet]. | NDIS; (2024), [cited 14 February 2024]. Available from: https://www.ndis.gov.au/understanding/ndis-and-other-government-services/hearing-supports.