Apple’s AirPods Pro 2 has introduced a new feature to assist adults with hearing loss, which has been approved by the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA). The AirPods Pro 2 can soon be used as hearing aids, with experts calling it a game-changer in the hearing aid market.
According to Apple, this feature is designed to protect hearing, with built-in hearing tests and hearing aid functionalities.
On Thursday, the FDA approved a software called “Hearing Aid Functionality” (HAF) that will allow Apple’s AirPods Pro 2 earbuds and other compatible devices to be used as hearing aids when paired with an iPhone or iPad compatible with iOS 18. The FDA stated that this is the first time they have approved non-prescription hearing aid software.
Apple had previously announced that iOS 18 (which will be providing the HAF through this software) will be released in October.
The FDA stated that the new HAF is suitable for an estimated 30 million Americans who have mild to moderate hearing loss due to factors such as aging, noise damage, certain medical conditions, and others. The application will also provide hearing tests which will be used to customize the volume, tone, and balance settings of the built-in hearing aid.
These wireless earphones were originally designed for enjoying music anytime, anywhere, but now serve a medical purpose. Doctors and hearing specialists believe this is a significant advancement. Experts told CBS MoneyWatch that these devices address many issues that often hinder Americans from benefiting from hearing aids, such as psychological barriers and affordability concerns.
According to the World Health Organization, there are 1.5 billion people globally with hearing loss, the majority of whom could benefit from hearing aids but do not use them. Many people have psychological barriers to wearing hearing aids, associating them with aging.
Dr. Sujana Chandrasekhar, a partner at ENT and Allergy Associates, said, “Untreated hearing loss leads to social isolation, depression, and can even trigger dementia.”
Apple’s AirPods bypass this stigma. Since everyone wears earbuds while walking, you don’t appear to be wearing a hearing aid, thus overcoming all these obstacles.
According to data from the National Council on Aging, a pair of advanced hearing aids costs $3,000, while AirPods Pro 2 is priced at $249, significantly lower than some other high-quality over-the-counter products. Now, Apple’s upgraded AirPods offer a more affordable option. They are currently available on the market, though the hearing assistance feature awaiting FDA approval.
Dr. Sreek Cherukuri of Illinois ENT welcomes Apple’s foray into the hearing aid field, but also highlights some negatives, stating, “On a social level, when you see someone wearing AirPods, you may not talk to them because you think they are on a call or listening to music.” Additionally, “AirPods may not be suitable for older individuals with larger ear canals, and their battery life may not last a full day.”