Apple Introduces Hearing Aid Feature for AirPods Pro 2, Awaiting FDA Approval

Apple announced on Monday a range of hearing health updates for the AirPods Pro 2. These include a new “clinical-grade” hearing aid feature designed for users with mild to moderate hearing loss. The hearing aid functionality is currently awaiting FDA approval, but the company states that it expects clearance soon.

The new hearing aid feature is designed to amplify specific sounds such as speech and environmental noise in real-time.

To complement the hearing aid feature, Apple has also introduced a new hearing test based on pure-tone audiometry, a widely used clinical method for detecting hearing loss. The test builds on data from the Apple Hearing Study, developed in collaboration with the University of Michigan School of Public Health.

It allows users to take a five-minute, at-home test with their AirPods, providing results that include an audiogram and hearing loss classification for each ear. These results can be stored in Apple’s Health app and shared with healthcare professionals.

Once the test is completed, users receive personalized hearing profiles that automatically adjust audio settings across different media, including music, movies, and phone calls. The personalized settings aim to offer more tailored audio experiences without requiring users to manually adjust their devices.

In addition to the hearing aid and test features, Apple is introducing a passive hearing protection mode. This will automatically reduce noise in loud environments such as concerts or sporting events, helping users avoid long-term hearing damage.

One of the most noteworthy aspects of Apple’s hearing aid feature is its affordability. Priced at $249.00, it offers a significantly more accessible option compared to traditional hearing aids, which can cost upwards of $2,000, as reported by Forbes. However, it’s crucial to note that this feature is not intended for those with severe hearing loss and remains subject to regulatory approval.

Technological advancement in hearing aids has also been marked by the use of AI. Recently, Sonova announced a new hearing aid that employs real-time AI to enhance speech clarity in noisy environments, showing the growing role of AI in improving hearing solutions.

While offering a more affordable option for users with mild to moderate hearing loss, the hearing aid feature’s effectiveness remains to be fully tested and approved by the FDA. Until then, it provides an intriguing step forward in integrating hearing health tools into consumer devices.