A Marvel

At the beginning of August 2024, I received a new processor to replace the old Naida CI Q90.  The new one is called Naida CI M90. That sounds rather similar but in fact they are quite different as the M90 is based on a different chip platform called the Marvel. The processor and batteries are slightly smaller and sleeker.  The headpiece is noticeably slimmer too.  

The main difference, however, is connectivity.  The old Q90 could only communicate with external gadgets via an intermediate Compilot device.  This is a small pendant thing that hangs around one's neck on a special wire.  This wire lets the Compilot talk to the processor using something called NFMI (near-field magnetic induction).  The Compilot then talks to gadgets via Bluetooth or via a 3.5mm audio jack. This mostly works quite well if one is sitting in a chair; however, the NFMI is somewhat sensitive to outside electric noise and to the orientation or movement of the processor with respect to the wire.  So it's fine for walking along listening to a podcast but not so good for listening to something while running or cycling.

The new M90 has built-in Bluetooth in addition to some other Bluetooth-like proprietary protocols.  So it can connect directly to a smartphone, computer, tablet and even some newer TVs. This works very nicely once the processor is correctly paired with the device.  There is some noticeable lag if, say, watching a YouTube video and the sound seems to be a fraction of second behind people's lip movements. But it's not intolerable and it seems to vary somewhat between different devices.

The "Bluetooth-like" protocols include another gadget called a Phonak TV Connector.  This has been around for a few years in the hearing-aid world so it's well tested.  It plugs in to the back of the TV or other similar gadget and streams the sound directly to the processor.  No pairing or other messing around needed!  And, in principle, multiple people can listen to the same TV Connector provided they are reasonably close to the TV.  I find I can walk to the kitchen (about 30 feet) before it starts to cut out.

So far, so good. Except that this connectivity only works with my new processor and not with the old hearing aid that I wear in my left ear.  It would be nice if I could stream stuff to both ears at the same time.

The Passage of Time

Some years have passed since I last posted on this blog.  About 15 years, in fact. It hardly seems possible: that's almost a quarter of my life!

In that time, much has changed: loved ones have passed on, Fukushima, Obama, COVID pandemic, Barb has retired ... and I have retired also. 

As far as hearing goes, there hasn't been a huge amount of change during that time. A few years back, in 2016, I upgraded my processor to an Advanced Bionics Naida Q90.  It's a big improvement on the old Harmony processor: smaller, more robust and more reliable.  It has multiple programs for different listening situations and can be connected to external gadgets via a device called a ComPilot.

Plus, it has a gadget called an AquaCase. This is a waterproof 'clamshell' style case which has made it possible to hear while swimming, kayaking or even snorkeling without fear of damaging the processor.  It is also useful for non-water activities such as running or cycling where sweat, rain or condensation can be a problem.

Unfortunately, processors have a limited lifespan and, after a certain point, the manufacturer will no longer warranty the product nor will they provide spare parts.  My processor 'expired' last year (Oct 2023) even though it continues to work well.  As I'm totally reliant on the processor in order to function, I really have little choice but to upgrade it to the current generation of processor.

Switching to a different manufacturer is not possible because the implant (i.e. the part that was surgically installed in my inner ear and cochlear) is only compatible with processors from the same manufacturer.  It will not work with processors from other manufacturers such as Cochlear Corp or Med-El and vice-versa.  So I'm 'locked in' to Advanced Bionics.