Essential Information for ENTs
In late September 2026, TICI UNICO, the first commercially available totally implantable cochlear implant, was launched. Designed for people with severe-to-profound sensorineural hearing loss, it expands the range of cochlear implant options by offering a solution with no externally worn components.
The following questions and answers highlight the key facts ENT specialists should know about TICI UNICO, providing a practical reference for patient counselling.
What is TICI UNICO?
TICI UNICO is a fully implanted cochlear implant (CI). Unlike conventional cochlear implant systems, all components, including the microphone, are implanted under the skin, eliminating the need for an external audio processor. Built on proven cochlear implant technology, it adds a new option to the existing spectrum of CI solutions.
The system is powered by an implanted rechargeable battery that provides up to 40 hours of use on a single charge, depending on individual usage. Recipients can continue hearing while the implant is charging.
How does TICI UNICO differ from conventional cochlear implants?
The key difference is that the microphone and the battery are fully implanted. Recipients can hear without any external parts, eliminating the daily handling and management of an audio processor.
Clinical investigations and studies to date have shown hearing outcomes designed to be comparable to those of established cochlear implant systems. The surgical procedure is similar to standard cochlear implant surgery, with the addition of implanting the microphone and microphone lead beneath the skin.
Why was a totally invisible cochlear implant developed?
TICI UNICO was developed for people who want to hear 24/7. And also for those who prefer a discreet, completely invisible hearing solution.
Despite growing awareness and acceptance of hearing technology, concerns about stigma and visibility remain. Many people with hearing loss want to have the choice whether or not to tell others about their poor hearing.
What are the practical benefits in everyday life?
Without the need for an external audio processor, users can hear in situations where externally worn hearing technology would typically need to be removed, such as while swimming, showering, exercising, or sleeping.
TICI users do no longer need to manage, attach, remove, or protect an external processor, which gives them more freedom in daily life and reduces concerns about losing or damaging a processor.
Uninterrupted hearing is a huge advantage. With conventional cochlear implants, audio processors are not typically worn during sleep. TICI UNICO is active throughout the day and night, potentially increasing daily device use, which may boost hearing performance, as studies suggest.
Like with conventional CIs, users of the TICI UNICO can undergo MRI scans under specified conditions.
Can recipients hear while sleeping?
Yes. TICI UNICO allows uninterrupted hearing, including during sleep. Users can hear important sounds during the night, such as a child calling for them or an alarm sounding. At the same time, they can switch the TICI UNICO off whenever they choose and sleep in silence.
Key Facts at a Glance
- World’s first commercially available fully implanted and totally invisible cochlear implant
- No externally worn components or audio processor required
- Microphone, electronics and power supply are implanted under the skin
- Hearing outcomes comparable to conventional cochlear implant systems
- Hearing while sleeping, showering, swimming and exercising
- Rechargeable battery providing up to 40 hours of use
- Continuous access to sound day and night
- CE marked; commercial launch in September 2026
References
A short summary of the TICI feasibility study can be found in our Science Update.
Find more information about TICI UNICO here.
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