A new era of hearing technology has arrived — and it’s smarter than ever. Cochlear Limited has received FDA approval for its groundbreaking Nucleus Nexa System, the first cochlear implant with upgradeable firmware. For the millions living with hearing loss, this means a smoother path to better hearing that evolves over time — without the need for surgery or full system replacement.
Smarter Hearing Starts Now
Until now, if cochlear implant users wanted the latest features, they had to upgrade or replace their external sound processors. But the Nucleus Nexa System changes that. Its internal implant is designed to receive software updates, much like your smartphone. This makes it easier to keep up with the latest technology and hearing advancements — no extra procedures required.
Dr. David Kelsall from Rocky Mountain Ear Center called it “an exciting innovation” that boosts his ability to offer the best care now and into the future.
What Makes the Nexa System So Revolutionary?
Here’s what sets it apart:
✅ Upgradeable Firmware
The implant’s internal chip can receive updates — meaning patients can access new features as they’re developed.
✅ Smaller, Smarter Sound Processor
The Nucleus 8 Nexa Sound Processor is 9% smaller and 12% lighter than the previous model. It also includes a Power Compact battery for all-day listening.
✅ Built-in Hearing Settings
For the first time, your personal hearing program (called MAPs) is stored directly in the implant. Even if your external processor is lost or damaged, your settings are safe.
✅ Intelligent Power Management
The system automatically adapts to your listening needs throughout the day to improve hearing and extend battery life.
✅ Backward Compatibility
Even users with older Cochlear Nucleus implants can upgrade to the Kanso 3 Nexa Sound Processor and enjoy advanced features like SmartSound iQ 2, SCAN 2, and ForwardFocus.
Together, these components offer a full ecosystem — from mobile apps and wireless streaming to waterproof designs — designed to fit into modern life.
Changing Lives Through Better Hearing
The technology also features a new chipset and onboard diagnostics that monitor performance automatically, reducing stress for both users and caregivers. According to Jan Janssen, Cochlear’s Chief Technology Officer, the goal is to make hearing support more adaptive and user-friendly for years to come.
Just ask Lori Miller, one of the first recipients of the Nucleus Nexa System.
“Life has changed dramatically for me,” she shared. “Most importantly, I can hear my family. That’s my top priority. I feel like I’ve been given a second chance — and now every sound is a gift I won’t take for granted.”
Coming Summer 2025
The Nucleus Nexa System will be available in late summer 2025, offering a smarter way forward for the estimated 430 million people worldwide living with disabling hearing loss.
This isn’t just an implant — it’s a lifelong hearing companion that grows with you.