Improving conversation for cochlear implant users in noisy environments

Commercial Readiness of a CI NR algorithm

['FUNDING_OTHER'] · YORK SOUND INC · NIH-10873071

This study is testing a new tool that helps people with cochlear implants hear better in noisy places, like restaurants or family gatherings, by making it easier to focus on conversations instead of background noise.

Quick facts

Phase['FUNDING_OTHER']
Study typeNih_funding
SexAll
SponsorYORK SOUND INC (nih funded)
Locations1 site (FOREST HILLS, UNITED STATES)
Trial IDNIH-10873071 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this research studies

This research focuses on enhancing the ability of cochlear implant users to engage in conversations in challenging auditory environments, such as restaurants or family gatherings where multiple people are talking. The team has developed an innovative algorithm called SEDA, which effectively separates background noise from foreground speech, significantly improving speech comprehension for users. By addressing the limitations of existing noise reduction algorithms, this project aims to refine SEDA for commercial use, ensuring it can be integrated into cochlear implants to benefit users in real-world settings.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals who use cochlear implants and experience difficulties understanding speech in noisy settings.

Not a fit: Patients who do not use cochlear implants or have other unrelated hearing impairments may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could greatly enhance the quality of life for cochlear implant users by enabling them to participate more fully in conversations in noisy environments.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promise with similar algorithms, indicating that advancements in noise reduction technology can significantly improve communication for cochlear implant users.

Where this research is happening

FOREST HILLS, UNITED STATES

Researchers

About this research

  1. This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
  2. Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
  3. For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.

View on NIH RePORTER →

Last reviewed 2026-05-15 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.