The Future of Apple AirPods: A Revolutionary Hearing Test App
Apple has always been at the forefront of innovation, constantly pushing the boundaries of technology with its groundbreaking products. In a recent demonstration by TechCrunch, an incomplete version of Apple’s forthcoming Hearing Test app was showcased, giving us a glimpse into what could be a game-changer for those with hearing loss. This app, which shares similarities with clinical hearing tests, has the potential to revolutionize the way we diagnose and address hearing loss.
Building on the success of its AirPods Pro, Apple is set to integrate the Hearing Test app into iOS 18. However, before its launch, the company is awaiting FDA approval for both the app and the newly announced hearing aid feature. While there is a possibility that approval could be granted prior to iOS 18’s general availability on September 16, there is currently no guarantee.
To enable the hearing aid feature, users must have mild to moderate hearing loss. However, the diagnosis doesn’t necessarily have to come directly from the app itself. Users will also have the option to upload results from a third-party test. It’s important to note that the hearing aid functionality will not be enabled for individuals with no hearing loss or those with severe or profound loss. In such cases, the app will advise users to seek out a hearing specialist for further assistance.
The limitations of a non-specialized consumer electronic device like AirPods Pro are acknowledged by Apple. While the app and the hearing aid feature offer a promising solution for mild to moderate hearing loss, severe or profound loss requires specialized intervention. The FDA only established the category of over-the-counter hearing aids in mid-2023, highlighting the newness of this space and the need for further advancements.
At launch, the hearing aid feature will only be available for the second generation AirPods Pro. This limited availability can be attributed to the passive noise-canceling provided by the Pro’s ear tips and the inclusion of the H2 chip, which is missing in the original Pros. Once a pair of AirPods is paired and inserted into the wearer’s ears, the feature can be accessed through the iOS settings. The full version of the hearing test should take approximately five minutes to complete.
One intriguing aspect of this new feature is the potential for user-customizable sound profiles. Similar to how the Apple Watch’s AssistiveTouch accessibility feature paved the way for the DoubleTap gesture, it’s possible that Apple is laying the groundwork for broader customization options in the sound department. Currently, users can adjust the AirPods’ EQ in settings, but with the hearing aid feature’s launch, those without apparent hearing loss won’t be able to fine-tune playback.
This move by Apple aligns with its commitment to accessibility and inclusivity. By integrating the hearing aid feature and the Hearing Test app into its ecosystem, Apple is not only improving the audio experience for individuals with hearing loss but also setting a precedent for other companies to prioritize accessibility features in their products.
While headphone startup Nuraphone was unable to capitalize on customizable sound profiles as a standalone business, the mainstream adoption of this feature could potentially enhance the overall Apple audio experience. The upcoming release of the AirPods Pro 2 may further solidify Apple’s position as a leader in audio technology.
In conclusion, Apple’s Hearing Test app and hearing aid feature have the potential to revolutionize the way we address hearing loss. By leveraging its expertise in audio technology and its commitment to accessibility, Apple is paving the way for a more inclusive future. With the integration of this feature into its AirPods Pro and iOS ecosystem, Apple is once again pushing the boundaries of innovation and setting new standards for the industry.