Cochlear Implant Technology Tools to Support Your Journey

When you first start using your cochlear implant, things might sound a bit strange or unclear. That’s normal – your brain is adjusting. The more you listen, even for short periods each day, the easier it becomes.

Over time, everyday sounds like voices, music, or nature will start to feel more familiar.

There are simple digital tools (many of them free) that can support your hearing practice. You can use them on a smartphone, tablet, or computer.

These tools help you:

• Practice understanding words and sounds

• Listen to music again

• Track your progress

• Stay motivated

You don’t have to be “tech-savvy” to benefit—many are made to be simple and easy to use.

Advanced Bionics offers free resources through our Advanced DigiCare portfolio. Discover the latest cochlear implant resources to practice understanding speech and sounds, and more!

• AB ListenFit – this phone app is designed to help track your hearing progress.*
• HearingSuccess – A website full of listening exercises, tips, and videos.
  • SoundSuccess™ – Practice listening with different voices and sounds.
  • WordSuccess™ – Practice hearing differences in similar-sounding words.
  • Musical Atmospheres – Rediscover music, one step at a time.
• The Listening Room – Fun and helpful activities for all ages, including adults.

You don’t need long sessions to improve. Just 10 to 15 minutes a day can make a real difference.

Try practicing while doing something simple—like cooking, taking a walk, or sitting in a quiet room. Regular practice, even in small amounts, helps your brain get used to hearing again.

Hearing a new sound like a bird, a laugh, or your doorbell is worth celebrating. It means your brain is learning!

You can use an app like AB ListenFit to track those moments. Or simply write them down in a notebook. Every step forward is something to be proud of.

Practicing alone is helpful—but it can be even better with someone you trust. A friend, family member, or partner can join you in short listening exercises.

Try this:

• Use WordSuccess™ with a partner. They say a word; you repeat it.
• Listen to music together using Musical Atmospheres and talk about what you hear.

Doing this together can help you feel more confident—and helps your loved ones learn how to support you better too.

If you have young children in your life who use cochlear implants, there are fun tools for them too:

• BabyBeats™ – Music and movement activities for babies and toddlers.
• AB Listening Adventures (iPad) – Games that build listening skills.
• VocAB Scenes (iPad) – Learning words through pictures.
• The Listening Room – Games, songs, and printable worksheets.

These tools make listening practice feel like play—and can be a fun way to bond.

HearingJourney.com is an online space where cochlear implant users and their families can connect.

You can:

• Ask questions
• Meet mentors
• Share your story
• Join live chats or read helpful advice

Whether you’ve just started your journey or have had your implant for years, it’s a friendly place to learn and feel supported.

Everyone’s hearing goals are different. For you, it might be enjoying a favorite song again. Or following a conversation at dinner. Or simply hearing your loved ones more clearly.

Whatever your goal is—big or small—it matters. And every sound you hear is a sign of progress. Keep going. You’re doing great.