It’s a bit of a revolution in the world of hearing aids. While the iPhone 16 was the star of Apple’s “Glowtime” event this week, the biggest news came from another product line: the AirPods Pro 2. Apple announced that its premium earbuds could soon double as over-the-counter hearing aids, thanks to a software update. The US health regulator has just given Apple the green light to consider the AirPods Pro as a real hearing aid.

FDA Green Light

And this Thursday, the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) gave the green light. It authorized “the first over-the-counter hearing aid software device, Hearing Aid Feature,” specifically the update that enables this feature on the AirPods Pro 2. A first for a consumer product.

This follows the FDA’s decision in October 2022 to allow the sale of hearing aids without a prescription. A move that paved the way for a new industry of more accessible hearing aids, which Apple plans to take advantage of with its popular wireless earbuds.

A hearing test integrated into the iPhone

Specifically, AirPods Pro 2 users will be able to take a hearing test directly from their iPhone settings under iOS 18. If they have mild to moderate hearing loss, they will be able to activate the hearing aid function. This will adjust the different frequency levels to amplify key sounds such as the human voice.

All without having to adjust anything: personalized hearing profiles will be automatically applied to music, movies, games and phone calls. Even those without major hearing loss will be able to benefit from targeted adjustments.

One small step for AirPods, one giant leap for accessibility

While technically this is “just” a software update, it’s a major step forward in terms of accessibility. Traditional hearing aids remain expensive and stigmatizing. By offering a discreet and affordable solution within its popular earbuds, Apple could be a game changer.

Of course, the AirPods Pro 2 won’t replace custom hearing aids for severe hearing loss. But for the millions of people who start to lose their hearing as they age, it’s a great option. Especially since they’ll still be able to use their earbuds to listen to music and make calls.

With this FDA approval, Apple is taking a new step in its health strategy, after fall detection on the Apple Watch or menstrual cycle tracking. AirPods are becoming more than ever daily health and well-being companions. An ambitious vision that could inspire other tech players to launch into this promising niche.

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