In news that marks a major step forward in technological accessibility, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approved the use of the AirPods Pro 2 from Apple as hearing devices for people with hearing problems.
This decision has major implications for both the technology industry and the millions of people suffering from hearing loss, who now have a more accessible and affordable option to expensive traditional hearing aids.
Economical alternative for those suffering from hearing loss
Hearing aids for the hearing impaired are known for their high price, which can range from $1,000 to $6,000. per device, depending on features and degree of customization.
In comparison, The AirPods Pro 2, which cost around $249, represent a much cheaper option for those who need hearing assistance but cannot afford expensive traditional medical devices. This price gap means that More people with mild to moderate hearing loss will have access to a high-quality technological solution without the economic barrier that conventional hearing aids pose.
This change in status for AirPods Pro 2 not only offers financial relief, but also opens the door to a democratization of access to advanced hearing devices. With AirPods noise cancellation technology and transparency modes, users can more effectively customize their listening experience, tailoring the sound to their particular needs.
Scientific support for the hearing benefits of AirPods
Although the recent FDA approval marks a turning point, The idea that Apple’s AirPods could function as assistive listening devices is not new.In fact, researchers from Taiwan had already pointed out in previous studies the benefits that these headphones offered to users with hearing problems.
In 2022, studies showed that AirPods could significantly improve sound clarity for people with mild to moderate hearing loss, competing in quality with much more expensive medical devices.
The software in AirPods Pro 2, including its adaptive EQ system and directional microphones, plays a crucial role in improving the listening experience for users.
These features They allow you to automatically adjust the audio based on the environment, which is essential for those who need hearing help in everyday situations.such as meetings or conversations in noisy environments. The combination of these features makes AirPods a viable option for many people who might not otherwise have considered purchasing a traditional medical device.
Apple and its commitment to hearing health
The FDA’s decision underscores a broader trend in Apple’s strategy to enter the healthcare marketand more specifically, in the area of hearing health. The company has demonstrated in recent years its commitment to integrating wellness and health features into its consumer products, as seen in the Apple Watch and its ability to measure heart rate and detect falls.
With AirPods Pro 2Apple is looking to position itself as an affordable technological alternative to conventional hearing devices.a market that has historically been dominated by a few specialized companies. This approach also fits within a trend by the FDA to facilitate access to over-the-counter hearing devices, a measure that seeks to reduce costs and increase competition in the sector.
Apple has implemented significant improvements in the second generation of its AirPods Pro to make them a useful tool for users with hearing loss.Updates include longer battery life, better water and sweat resistance, and improvements to sound processing technology.
These features allow AirPods Pro 2 to not only offer a superior sound experience for the average user, but also be useful for those with specific hearing needs.
Continue reading:
– The new AirPods 4 have versions: these are the differences
– AirPods Pro 3: these are the features and functions that have been leaked
– AirPods Pro will have this new feature thanks to iOS 18