Restoring Hearing with Beams of Light

Researchers in Germany say they've come up with a new cochlear implant that uses beams of light.

image from the Institute for Auditory Neuroscience

The precise beams of light emitters would stimulate the cochlear nerve through genetically altered cells that would respond to light. Present day cochlear implants instead use electrical current to stimulate the cochlear nerve. If the researchers are correct the user will experience a fuller spectrum of sounds. Clinical trials are due to start in 2026 and the devices would be available in the next decade. Read more here.