Exploring the intersection of cochlear implants and artificial intelligence: A mixed-method systematic and scoping review

This study systematically evaluates the role of artificial intelligence (AI) in cochlear implant (CI) technology, focusing on speech enhancement, automated fitting, AI-assisted surgery, predictive modeling, and rehabilitation. The review identifies key advancements, existing limitations, and areas for future development. Following PRISMA guidelines, we conducted a systematic search across PubMed, IEEE Xplore, Scopus, ScienceDirect, and Embase. We included peer-reviewed primary data studies on AI applications in CIs. The selected studies were categorized into thematic subdomains, such as noise suppression, adaptive programming, AI-driven surgical planning, and telemedicine applications. From an initial pool of 743 records, 129 studies met the eligibility criteria and were included in the final analysis. These studies were categorized into eleven thematic subdomains. The review identified the main application areas and emerging research fronts at the intersection of artificial intelligence and cochlear implant technologies, including speech enhancement, automated fitting, predictive modeling, rehabilitation support, and AI-assisted surgery. AI is transforming CI technology by improving speech perception, personalization, and surgical precision. However, challenges persist, including computational constraints, data heterogeneity, and the need for large-scale clinical validation. Future research should prioritize energy-efficient AI architectures, regulatory approval pathways, and ethical considerations in automated decision-making. Advancing AI-driven telemedicine solutions can expand CI accessibility, reducing the need for in-person programming. Addressing these challenges will accelerate the development of more adaptive and user-centered CI solutions, ultimately enhancing auditory rehabilitation and quality of life for CI users. • AI may enhance cochlear implant speech perception by optimizing noise suppression. • Machine learning could enable real-time, personalized cochlear implant adjustments. • AI-assisted surgery has the potential to improve electrode placement and reduce trauma. • Telemedicine and AI might facilitate remote cochlear implant fitting with high user satisfaction. • Challenges remain in AI adoption, requiring validation and regulatory frameworks.