Apple Gets FDA Approval to Use AirPods as Hearing Aids
Market Disruption on the Horizon
In a move that could potentially disrupt the hearing-aid market, the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has authorized hearing features in upcoming Apple AirPods earpieces.
About the AirPods Pro 2
Earlier this week, Apple added AirPods Pro 2 to its lineup, touting a pending software upgrade that will let people test their hearing and then get assisted listening for everyday life as well as streaming online.
FDA Approval
The US FDA on Thursday authorized the hearing-aid feature for the devices, noting that a study showed users found them as beneficial as professionally fitted ones.
Benefits for Users
"Hearing loss is a significant public health issue impacting millions of Americans," said FDA acting director Michelle Tarver, adding that Apple’s software "advances the availability, accessibility and acceptability of hearing support for adults with perceived mild to moderate hearing loss."
Pricing and Accessibility
AirPods Pro 2 are priced at US$249 (RM1,078), considerably lower than the average price of clinical-grade hearing aids, but those interested will need to adopt Apple’s devices.
How the Features Work
Along with the new feature, the AirPods Pro 2 – used with iPhones or iPads – will be able to test hearing and create a user’s hearing profile stored privately in an Apple Health app. The test takes about five minutes, with users tapping an iPhone or iPad screen when they hear tones at various volumes and frequencies. The results are then used to calibrate the hearing aid. That profile is also "automatically applied to music, movies, games, and phone calls across their devices without needing to adjust any settings," Apple said.
Impact on the Market
The development could potentially disrupt the hearing-aid market, which has traditionally been dominated by clinical-grade devices. However, Apple’s offering could make hearing aids more accessible and affordable for many people.
Health and Fitness Features
Apple has steadily been integrating health and fitness features into its products: its Apple Watch can remind people when to take medicine, warn of harmful noise levels, or detect an irregular heart rhythm that should be checked. It can also let women know when they are likely ovulating. A new version of the Apple Watch announced this week adds the ability to detect sleep apnoea, a dangerous condition in which breathing stops intermittently while sleeping.
Conclusion
The FDA’s approval of Apple’s hearing features in AirPods Pro 2 is a significant development in the tech giant’s foray into the health and wellness space. With the ability to detect hearing loss and offer assisted listening, Apple is making a bold move to make hearing aids more accessible and affordable for many people.
FAQs
Q: How much do AirPods Pro 2 cost?
A: AirPods Pro 2 are priced at US$249 (RM1,078).
Q: Do I need to buy an Apple device to use the hearing features?
A: Yes, AirPods Pro 2 need to be used with an iPhone or iPad to function.
Q: How long does the hearing test take?
A: The hearing test takes about five minutes.
Q: Can I use the hearing features with my existing audio devices?
A: No, the hearing features are exclusive to AirPods Pro 2, which need to be used with an iPhone or iPad.