Having AirPods, which have been traditionally used to listen to audio on iPhones, perform double duty as hearing aids could be another pathway for those with mild or moderate hearing loss to an improved quality of life.
This fall Apple AirPods’ new “hearing aid feature” will allow for the amplification of sound to help those with a mild to moderate hearing impairment.
According to Apple’s website, “If you have mild or moderate hearing loss, AirPods Pro can provide hearing assistance that makes voices, music, and the sounds around you easier to hear.” Users can even take a hearing test using the devices.
A September 12th, 2024, press release from the Food and Drug Administration approved the use of some AirPods as an Over-the-Counter (OTC) hearing aid for those who are 18 years or older.
In 2022, The FDA had already removed many hurdles to hearing aid access for those with mild to moderate hearing impairments by establishing the new category of Over-the-Counter (OTC) hearing aids. It allows consumers to access hearing aids that are less expensive, and without a medical exam, fitting from an audiologist, or prescription.
According to the National Council on Aging, about 28.8 million Americans could benefit from hearing aids, yet only 16% of those individuals between the ages of 20 and 69 will use them. High cost, stigma, lack of accessibility, and poor customer satisfaction have kept people from buying hearing aids. In addition, hearing loss can be a factor in increased depression and other health problems.
Apple AirPods Pro Hearing Health Page
Food and Drug Administration Press Release for Over-the-Counter Hearing Aid Software
National Council on Aging: Hernandez, N. (2023). Hearing Loss Statistics 2024
National Public Radio: Kim, J (2024). FDA approves some Apple AirPods to be used as hearing aids