Improving speech in noise and sound localization for cochlear implant users
Official title: Spatially Transparent Binaural Beamforming for Noise Reduction for Cochlear Implant Processors
Run by University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign · NCT07323862 · Data updated 2026-11-12
A new processing algorithm is tested to see if it helps people with bilateral cochlear implants understand speech in noisy environments and tell where sounds come from.
Quick facts
| Study type | Interventional |
|---|---|
| Ages | 18 Years and up |
| Sex | All |
| Enrollment | 25 (estimated) |
| Sponsor | University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign Academic / other |
| Locations | 1 site (Champaign, Illinois) |
| Status | Recruiting |
| Started | April 27, 2026 |
| Main results expected | August 31, 2027 |
| Study ends | August 31, 2027 |
| Registry record updated | September 2, 2026 |
| Trial ID | NCT07323862 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
Is this trial a fit for you?
✓Likely a good fit
Ideal candidates are adults with bilateral Cochlear or Advanced Bionics implants.
✕Probably not a fit
Some participants may not experience improvement in speech understanding or localization.
A plain-English reading of the study's rules. Only the study team can confirm whether you qualify.
What this trial studies
This study tests a modified audio input algorithm for cochlear implant processors in users with bilateral implants. Participants listen to and repeat sentences in noise and indicate the origin of sounds. The trial aims to determine whether the algorithm improves speech perception in noisy settings and preserves or enhances localization ability. The design involves applying the algorithm during listening tasks and measuring outcomes related to speech understanding and sound-source localization.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, the algorithm could help cochlear implant users hear better in noisy situations and locate sounds more accurately.
How similar studies have gone: Previous work on signal processing for cochlear implants has shown mixed results; this study tests a specific algorithm in a targeted user group.
Who can join: the full rules
Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria: * Participants must have bilateral cochlear implants from Cochlear or Advanced Bionics Exclusion Criteria: * Non-native English speakers
Where it's running
-
Speech and Hearing Science Building
Champaign, Illinois, United States Recruiting
Study contacts
- Study coordinator: Justin Aronoff, PhD
- Email: jaronoff@illinois.edu
- Phone: 217 244-2154
Similar studies
Other studies for the same condition or treatment. Recruiting studies are listed first.
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Binaural listening and its effects on listening effort and development in Mandarin-speaking children with cochlear implants
This study will test whether listening with two ears (two cochlear implants or a cochlear implant plus a hearing aid) reduces mental effort and helps brain, social, and daily-life development in Mandarin-speaking children aged 6–18 who use cochlear implants compared with children with normal hearing.
-
How cochlear implants affect listening effort and understanding in everyday conversations
The researchers will test whether measuring listening effort with pupil tracking and using realistic speech tasks can explain and improve how adults with cochlear implants understand everyday conversations.
-
Low-energy (LE) Bluetooth audio streaming with Nucleus 8 and Kanso 3 sound processors
This project will test whether low-energy (LE) Bluetooth audio streaming is accepted and works well for experienced adult cochlear implant users who use Nucleus 8 or Kanso 3 processors.
-
Early use of a cochlear implant in the first year
This project will test whether adults newly fitted with a cochlear implant notice changes in simple sound perception and improved speech understanding during their first year of device use using take-home and lab listening tests.
How to take part
- Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
- Check the official listing on ClinicalTrials.gov for the latest contact details and recruitment status.
- Contact the study coordinator or principal investigator to ask for pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.