# MED-EL fully implanted cochlear implant launch

> Developing situation record from CLSTR: https://clstr.news/situations/med-el-fully-implanted-cochlear-implant-launch
> Updated: 2026-10-02T11:43:16.000Z. Sources: 14. Developments: 2.

Austrian company MED-EL has launched TICI UNICO, the world’s first commercially available, fully implanted cochlear implant. Developed over 15 years, the device differs from conventional systems by placing all components, including the microphone, beneath the skin to eliminate the need for an external audio processor.

The technology is designed for individuals with severe-to-profound hearing loss, enabling continuous hearing during activities such as swimming or sleeping. Clinical data indicates that hearing performance is comparable to established external models. 

Following clinical milestones—including the first successful bilateral implantation at University Hospital Würzburg and the transition to routine patient care at the Medical University of Vienna and AKH Vienna—the device has received European regulatory approval. While it is being introduced to European markets, it is not yet available in the United States.

## Timeline

### 2026-10-02: Med-El launches world’s first fully implanted cochlear implant

Med-El has launched the TICI Unico, the first fully implanted cochlear implant, allowing users to hear without visible external hardware.

2 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/med-el-launches-worlds-first-fully-implanted-cochlear-implant

### 2026-09-29: MED-EL launches world's first invisible cochlear implant

MED-EL has launched TICI UNICO, the first commercially available totally invisible cochlear implant with all components beneath the skin, enabling continuous hearing without external processors.

12 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/med-el-launches-worlds-first-invisible-cochlear-implant

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Cite as: MED-EL fully implanted cochlear implant launch. CLSTR, https://clstr.news/situations/med-el-fully-implanted-cochlear-implant-launch