When Apple launched AirPods 4 in its iphone 16 The event also saw a minor upgrade to the AirPods Max — adding USB-C and some new colors — and announced some new upcoming features AirPods Pro 2. The best feature of this earplug is the ability to use it as a clinical-grade over-the-counter hearing aid.
One thing Apple needed was FDA approval for the feature, and now the company has gotten it. in a Press releaseLater, the FDA announced that it had provided clearance for AirPods Pro 2 as a hearing aid. “Once installed and customized to the user’s hearing needs, the hearing aid feature allows compatible versions of AirPods Pro to function as OTC hearing aids designed to amplify sound for individuals 18 years of age or older with mild hearing impairment,” the agency said in the announcement. to moderate hearing impairment.
“Today’s marketing authorization for over-the-counter hearing aid software for a widely used consumer audio product is another step forward,” said Dr. Michelle Tarver, acting director of the FDA’s Center for Devices and Radiological Health, in a statement. Availability, accessibility, and acceptability of hearing supports for adults with mild to moderate hearing loss.
AirPods Pro 2 has more features
The hearing aid industry is a huge industry. According to the FDA, “more than 30 million U.S. adults report some degree of hearing loss,” so the industry is ripe for disruption, and Apple is the perfect place to do it.
While the ability to use AirPods Pro 2 as hearing aids is undoubtedly the biggest feature coming to iOS 18 this fall, there are two other major health features coming soon. The first is Hearing Protection, which is turned on by default to ensure you don’t play audio too loud and cause permanent damage to your ears. In fact, you can now use AirPods Pro 2 as earbuds at live concerts.
Another feature of AirPods Pro 2 is a hearing test that anyone can take at home to test their hearing health. Apple says the test is “clinically proven” and can be completed at home in just five minutes. The company said the test used real-world data and was based on learnings it gained through Apple’s research program. After completing the test, you will receive a personalized hearing profile.
While AirPods 4 may be the only “new” AirPods the company releases this fall, AirPods Pro 2 with all these new features might even feel brand new. Hooray for earplugs becoming a renewable product!