Apple has launched a major new hearing aid function for its AirPods Pro 2 product.
The earbuds will soon gain the new function, which will be available to both new and existing owners of the product and will reportedly help them with any mild to moderate hearing loss that they are experiencing. It's a move that hopes to provide people with a cheaper and quicker alternative to accessing traditional hearing aids.
The US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) previously approved over-the-counter hearing aids that don't require a prescription in 2022, and Apple has now received approval from the organisation for the AirPods Pro 2, which will be available from the end of this month.
Once available, users will be able to take Apple's five-minute hearing test at home in order to gain access to the hearing aid function. Users will be able to access the results of their hearing test via the Health app in their iPhone, iPad or other Apple product.
Owners of the AirPods Pro 2 will also be able to create a personalised hearing profile that allows the earbuds to boost the volume of sounds within the wearer's surroundings, based on specific hearing needs. Additionally, the product will automatically adjust audio across a person's iPhone, iPad or other Apple product if required.
Find out more about the hearing aid feature for AirPods Pro 2 via the video below, and Apple's announcement post here.
In 2022, it was reported that over one billion young people were at risk of hearing loss due to “unsafe listening practices”, according to a study published by the BMJ Global Health Journal. In spring 2023 it was reported that 50% of UK gig-attendees are at risk of hearing loss, with one in four people already exhibiting signs of damage.
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