There’s always a bit of a buzz when Apple releases a new product. People line up for hours, even days, to be the first to get their hands on the latest iPhone. On September 9th, Apple introduced what they’re calling an “all-in-one hearing health experience” with AirPods Pro 2. There has been talk about AirPod “Hearing Aid Mode” being in the works for the past year, so the audiologist and the tech geek in me were both keen to find out just what that would look (or sound) like. Although it’s not clear if Apple will offer Hearing Aid Mode in Canada at this time due to government regulations around medical devices, this is a summary of what we know so far:
Apple’s hearing offering is focused on prevention, awareness, and assistance. They are aiming to achieve this through three features:
- Hearing Protection – a well fit AirPod silicone ear tip can reduce the intensity of surrounding noise just like any earplug, and on top of that, the chip digitally reduces louder sounds before they reach the ear
- Hearing Test – a current and compatible iPhone or iPad is used to determine the softest levels of a range of tones that can be heard
- Hearing Aid Mode – for wearers with a mild to moderate loss, this feature boosts sounds in real time based on their personalized hearing profile
This is all good news.
People often wait several years from the time they notice hearing issues to when they see an audiologist for a hearing evaluation. A quick test through your phone and your AirPods might be less intimidating, resulting in a reduction in this time lag. I haven’t got to play with this iPhone feature yet, but my hope is that it includes recommendations for when an audiologist or physician should be consulted.
Only about 25% of people who could benefit from hearing aids currently wear them – typically those with a more significant hearing loss. These Apple devices are meant to appeal to the other 75%. We know from numerous studies that early identification and intervention results in the best long-term outcomes in the treatment of hearing loss. A technology giant like Apple normalizing the conversation around hearing protection and the treatment of hearing loss is a huge step in the right direction.
For a comprehensive hearing evaluation and to find out what options are currently available for preventing and treating hearing loss, give us a call at 778-426-4876.
Donna Stewart,M.A.,Aud(C),RAUD/RHIP
Registered Audiologist and Owner
Hear Inc.
