Apple transforms ear buds into hearing aids — a game changer for the industry (and our attitudes)
As reported here, here and here, Apple is rolling out another software upgrade to its popular AirPods Pro 2 earbuds. But this one will be revolutionary. It will transform the earbuds into “clinical grade” hearing aids.
Users will be able to perform a quick hearing test using the earbuds and an iPhone or iPad. If the test finds evidence of hearing loss, the AirPods can then be set up as a hearing aid.
Apple announced the new features in September, and within days the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approved Apple’s over-the-counter (OTC) hearing aid software. The agency said it was the first of its kind.
As described in the Microsoft Start article linked above, “The hearing test feature uses ‘a standard clinical approach called pure-tone audiometry’, according to the company. When you activate it, you’ll be instructed to tap the screen on your device in correspondence to the tones you can hear through the headphones, which are played at different volumes and frequencies.
“The whole process takes around five minutes, after which you’ll get your results. If you have hearing loss, you’ll be given the option to turn on the hearing aid feature. Apple warns you that it may take a few weeks to get used to it.
“You can also upload an audiogram from your doctor to help fine-tune the hearing aid, which some have said leads to better results.”
In addition, Apple is also introducing a “hearing protection” feature that can help the earbuds “act like smart earplugs that block out loud sound. You’ll be given the option to use your test results to tweak the hearing aid settings or use the info from your audiogram. If you’re at a concert or sporting event, for instance, the onboard chip inside the buds will reduce low frequency noise by up to 35 dB.” Users can adapt to different setting and noise levels and the new feature works in various listening modes. AirPods act like smart earplugs that block out loud sounds.
You’ll be given the option to use your test results to tweak the hearing aid settings or use the info from your audiogram (Apple)
If you’re at a concert or sporting event, for instance, the onboard chip inside the dinky buds will reduce low frequency noise by up to 35 dB.
Apple says AirPods can adapt to different setting and noise levels, and the new feature works in various listening modes.
All told, it sounds like an extension of the adaptive audio feature that already turns down the volume if there’s a ruckus in the background or when you want to summon Siri.
Commentators, like The Verge article linked above, see this not just as a great new piece of Technology, but a revolution in hearing health awareness: “Apple is about to instantly turn the world’s most popular earbuds into an over-the-counter hearing aid. That also means we’re about to enter an era where we’ll need to get comfortable with people wearing earbuds at all times. There’s a perception that leaving your earbuds in while talking with other people is rude. Transparency mode in many of today’s earbuds sounds totally natural and lifelike, yet I still constantly remove my buds to show someone they’ve got my undivided attention. That way of thinking has to change when popular earbuds start pulling double duty as hearing aids. It’s a powerful way to reduce the stigma that’s all too common with hearing aids, but this shift will take time.”
The earbuds cost only about $220, compared to much more (some over $2,000) for leading hearing aid brands. To be fair, Apple is quite clear that these are for mild to moderate hearing loss, and it for more severe cases it remains extremely important to involve your doctor and a qualified audiologist.
It’s estimated that over 30 million Americans suffer from hearing loss. As we reported here, improving your hearing can increase your longevity. The hearing aid market was worth $10.6 billion last year, and it’s projected to reach $18 billion by 2032. As other Apple competitors get into the market, the Growth could be even faster. We’ll keep you up to date!
More on tech and healthy aging:
Tech Support: How AI and other technologies can help with social isolation and loneliness
AI in the kitchen: Another way tech could help with aging in place
New tech and other tips for staying safe during catastrophic weather events
5 new technologies for older adults
Content on this site is for informational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice. Always check with your qualified healthcare providers with any questions or concerns regarding a medical condition.
