Sonova Holding Profile
Sonova Holding AG engages in the development, manufacture, distribution, and servicing of hearing systems and related products. The Phonak Group comprises two hearing instrument divisions, Phonak and Unitron Hearing, as well as Phonak Communications, a developer of wireless communication devices for both hearing instrument and other applications.
The company operates worldwide and distributes its products through its own distribution network in the major industrialized countries and through independent representatives in approximately 70 other countries. The company principally operates in North America, Europe, Switzerland, China, Canada, and the United States.
In 2004 the company acquired Viennatone Horgerate GmbH to join Phonak’s existing Austrian retail organization Hansaton. In China, the Group establishes a new sales organization by integrating the former Phonak and Unitron Hearing agents to strengthen its presence in this important market. In Spring Phonak launched Valeo, the new digital product line in the mid-level segment. On the entry-level, Unitron Hearing introduces Breeze, a digital hearing system with conventional, trimmer-controlled fittings.
PRODUCTS
Hearing Instruments
Phonak develops hearing instruments for every degree of hearing loss, every preference and budget. Phonak provides high-tech solutions for children with hearing loss. The hearing instrument technologies, which are available from Phonak include Digital Technology, Programmable Technology, and Analog Technology.
The products offered through the company’s digital technology include: Savia, Perseo, Claro, Valeo, miniValeo, Aero, Supero, and MAXX. The products offered through programmable technology include Astro, MicroZoom, Piconet2, SonoForte2, PowerZoom, and NovoForte. The products offered through its analog technology include Classica, PicoForte3, and SuperFront.
Wireless communication systems
Wireless communication systems (FM systems) from Phonak have been helping hearing-impaired people to gain and enjoy vital communication. Phonak HAS developed digital frequency synthesizer technology, which is a multi-frequency system brings a combination of flexibility and miniaturization to the learning environment.
SmartLink SX: SmartLink is a communication gateway to all situations where understanding perfectly, all of the time, is key. This innovation, SmartLink, meets the needs of people with hearing loss, allowing them to communicate effectively in all environments and to take advantage of all the communication tools available today.
Transmitters: SmartLink offers access to the communication possibilities of business life, Bluetooth link for mobile phones, hearing instrument remote control, improved FM functionality, etc.
SmartLink SX, the new benchmark in wireless communication, incorporates improved FM technology, a hearing instrument remote control, and a Bluetooth link for mobile phone use. It provides crystal clear sound through the improved three phase DSP processing package with Digital SuperZoom², Fine-scale Noise Canceler, and Digital Voice Enhancement.
Campus S - Campus S is flexible when it comes to multi-classroom applications. These and other useful features, such as the large-format LCD, the built-in cable rewind, the multifunctional microphone or the simplified power management make Campus S the top transmitter in design, technology and convenience. It is used in all teaching environments, such as classrooms, excursions, guided tours, conferences, and meetings.
HandyMic TX3 - The microphone with a built-in transmitter is especially used for adults. The improved multi-microphone technology of the HandyMic combines omnidirectional, directional, and super-directional microphones with an FM transmitter. It can be set up directly in front of the sound source, slipped into the speaker's shirt pocket, or aimed at the speaker by hand. With an audio cable, the HandyMic can also be connected to a sound system. As with all other Phonak FM products, the HandyMic has a range of 7 to 15 meters (23 to 50 feet). It is used for business meetings, round-table discussions, family gatherings, in a car, on a noisy street, at home.
TelCom - Phonak's TelCom is the stationary FM transmitter that allows optimized television, telephone, and audio system usage. While the user watches TV or listens to music, TelCom assures that the telephone would be heard when it rings. TelCom automatically mutes the audio signal and transmits the caller's voice clearly and crisply. The TelCom has an operating range of 7 to 15 meters (23 to 50 feet). It is used for television, telephone, CD player, radio, personal computer and other equipment with audio output.
Receivers: Phonak FM receivers are distinguished by their miniaturization, compatibility and flexibility. These FM receivers are not only compatible with Phonak behind-the-ear hearing instruments, but also with hearing instruments of many other manufacturers. The frequency compatibility of the receivers with future Phonak wireless solutions is guaranteed. The new multi-frequency FM receivers with synthesizer technology focus on flexibility. They can be synchronized wirelessly to the transmitter frequency with Campus S or WallPilot.
Multi-frequency receiver (MLxS, ML8S and ML9S) - The multi-frequency MLxS, ML8S and ML9S are high-performance miniaturized receivers that can be synchronized automatically using the WallPilot or directly with Campus S. The MLxS also has a standardized Euro connector that makes it compatible with both Phonak hearing instruments and BTEs from other manufacturers. The ML8S fits neatly onto the BTE instruments in the Claro and Perseo lines and the design of the ML9S corresponds to the Savia BTE-design.
Single-frequency receivers (MLx, ML8, ML3-7) - These single-frequency receivers are all miniaturized and clip on to the base of the BTE hearing instrument. These established and proven devices can be removed easily or locked into place. Automatic Frequency Control (AFC) in each receiver prevents distortion and the soft-squelch system suppresses unwanted noise.
MicroLink CIS - This is a miniaturized FM receiver for cochlear implant users that attaches directly to the bodyworn speech processor. It has state-of-the art multi-frequency ability and is also compatible with all Phonak FM transmitters.
WallPilot - This picture-frame like device hangs at the entrance to a room and performs an Automatic Frequency Synchronization (AFS). WallPilot ensures that the multi-frequency receivers of wearers entering the room are automatically set to the correct frequency within the adjustable operating range of up to 2 meters (6 feet).
Configurator: The Configurator is an interactive planning tool. It enables hearing care professionals to accurately set-up any client's specific hearing instrument for use with the Phonak wireless communication system. All necessary information, such as audio shoe (order reference numbers), pin-orientation, hearing instrument and MLxS/CROSLink switch position and functions can be easily accessed by the fitter for quick and problem-free fittings. The Configurator would generate a customized user guide, which the hearing care professional may print out for each client.
EduLink: EduLink is a miniaturized FM system that Phonak has developed especially in the context of specific performance deficits. EduLink enables the child to receive the teacher's voice at any time without difficulty, even with a great deal of environmental noise. EduLink is used to complement existing therapies in children with Auditory Processing Disorders (APD), Attention Deficits Disorders (ADD), ADD with Hyperactivity (ADHD) and Learning Disabilities.
CROSLink: CROSLink enables significantly improved communication when one ear is unaidable. It satisfies CROS needs when the other ear is normal, or BiCROS needs when the better ear is impaired.
Accessories
The hearing instrument accessories include: Remote Controls, CleanLine, Hooks, and Cables.
Fitting Software
iPFG: iPFG is an intuitive, informative, innovative and intelligent fitting software built on the strengths of the PFG but adding further useful tools for an effective and efficient hearing system fitting of the entire Savia hearing system family.
Phonak Fitting Guideline (PFG): The Phonak Fitting Guideline is a user-friendly fitting software package developed to help the customers to achieve the best possible hearing correction with professionalism, speed and efficiency. It offers tools, which ensures customer satisfaction when fitting digital, as well as analog hearing systems. The latest version is PFG 8.4c. The Phonak Fitting Guideline supports fast and precise fitting of Phonak hearing instruments, which include - Perseo, Claro, Valeo, Aero, MAXX, and Supero.
Joint ventures and associates
The company and ReVolt Technology AS and Phonak Holding AG have entered into a collaboration agreement to design and develop rechargeable Zinc-air batteries for hearing aids. The scope of the agreement would include development and supply of prototype batteries based on ReVolt's revolutionary rechargeable Zinc-air battery technology.
Significant Events
In September 2021, Sonova Holding AG announced a strategic collaboration with Sensorion SA for introducing genetic analysis to the routine diagnosis of progressive hearing loss in adults.
History
Sonova Holding AG was founded in 1947. The company was formerly known as Phonak Holding AG and changed its name to Sonova Holding AG in August 2007.
