Apple Inc. has unveiled a groundbreaking new feature for its AirPods Pro 2, promising to revolutionize the hearing health experience. This innovative feature offers an end-to-end solution encompassing active Hearing Protection, a scientifically validated Hearing Test, and a clinical-grade Hearing Aid.
With an estimated 1.5 billion individuals globally experiencing hearing loss, according to the World Health Organization, Apple has developed a comprehensive approach centered on prevention, awareness, and assistance. The Hearing Protection feature safeguards users from exposure to loud environmental noise, while the Hearing Test feature enables users to conveniently assess their hearing at home. The results of this test are then used to create a personalized hearing profile for each user.
Traditional prescription hearing aids often cost between $2,000 and $7,000, making them inaccessible to millions in need. The FDA’s approval of over-the-counter hearing aids in 2022 paved the way for Apple’s latest AirPods to offer a hearing aid mode. This move has generated excitement about the potential for widespread adoption of this technology.
The Hearing Aid capability leverages the personalized hearing profile to transform the AirPods Pro into a “clinical-grade hearing aid,” dynamically enhancing sounds in real-time to help users participate more effectively in conversations and remain attuned to their surroundings. The Hearing Test and Hearing Aid features are expected to receive marketing authorization from global health authorities soon, including the U.S. Food and Drug Administration, and will be available this fall in over 100 countries and regions.
This announcement builds upon a series of developments and hints at Apple’s commitment to hearing health initiatives. In November 2022, a study published in the iScience journal revealed that AirPods Pro met four out of five standards for personal sound amplification products, indicating their potential as a hearing assistive device. The AirPods are now effectively hearing aids, devoid of the stigma often associated with them. If you experience some hearing loss but prefer not to use traditional hearing aids, you can now seamlessly incorporate Apple AirPods into your life without drawing attention.
In March, rumors circulated about the new “hearing aid mode” for AirPods Pro in the upcoming iOS 18 update, building on the existing Live Listen feature. This latest development underscores Apple’s dedication to integrating innovative hearing health solutions into its product ecosystem.
