Apple is breaking new ground with its second-generation AirPods Pro, now equipped with a newly approved hearing aid function. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has authorized this feature, making the AirPods Pro the first consumer earbuds to double as over-the-counter (OTC) hearing aids.
The AirPods Pro hearing aid feature underwent clinical trials involving 118 participants who experienced mild to moderate hearing loss. According to the FDA, those who used Apple’s self-fitting method reported hearing improvements comparable to individuals who received professional device fittings. This functionality is expected to make hearing aids more accessible and affordable, without compromising on quality or convenience.
Beyond the hearing aid feature, Apple is adding several new capabilities designed to protect and enhance hearing. One standout addition is Hearing Protection mode, which automatically adjusts audio levels in noisy environments like concerts. This feature preserves the richness and clarity of sound while safeguarding users’ ears from potential damage, ensuring a balanced listening experience in any setting.
Another noteworthy update is the Hearing Test, where users can take a custom test directly through their AirPods Pro. By tapping the screen when they hear various tones, users receive personalized results in the Health app, which are then used to tailor the hearing aid functionality to their unique profile. This integration with the Health app brings a more customized approach to hearing health, enabling users to track their auditory wellness alongside other metrics.
With over 1.5 billion people worldwide experiencing some form of hearing loss, according to the World Health Organization, the AirPods Pro hearing aid feature aims to address this global issue. By offering a familiar, stylish, and easy-to-use solution, Apple is helping to break down the barriers associated with traditional hearing aids, making hearing assistance more mainstream and accessible.
Apple has long incorporated features into its devices that monitor audio levels, warning users when their exposure to loud sounds could lead to permanent hearing damage. The addition of the AirPods Pro hearing aid feature further expands on this initiative, transforming an everyday device into a tool for better hearing health.
The FDA’s approval of this feature was granted through the De Novo classification, a process used for novel medical devices that present a low to moderate risk. Apple’s innovative approach to hearing aids could potentially spark a new era in hearing technology, one that integrates seamlessly into our daily lives without the stigma or expense often associated with traditional devices.
