When Apple introduced AirPods 4 his iPhone 16 event and also provided a small upgrade to the AirPods Max — adding USB-C and some new colors — it also announced some new features are coming. AirPods Pro 2. The biggest feature that comes with headphones is the ability to use them as clinical-grade over-the-counter hearing aids.
One thing Apple needed was FDA approval for this feature, and now the company has it. a press releaseThe FDA has announced that it has approved the AirPods Pro 2 to serve as a hearing aid. “Once fitted and customized to the user’s hearing needs, the Hearing Aid Feature allows compatible versions of AirPods Pro to serve as OTC hearing aids, designed to amplify sounds for individuals 18 years of age or older who are considered to have mild to moderate hearing loss,” the agency announced.
In a statement, Michelle Tarver, MD, Ph.D., acting director of the FDA’s Center for Devices and Radiological Health, said, “Today’s marketing authorization of an over-the-counter hearing aid program in a widely used consumer audio product is another step forward in advancing the availability, accessibility and acceptability of hearing support for adults with moderate hearing loss.”
More is coming to AirPods Pro 2
The hearing aid industry is a huge industry. According to the FDA, “more than 30 million American adults report some degree of hearing loss,” so this is an industry ripe for disruption, and Apple is perfectly positioned to do so.
While being able to use the AirPods Pro 2 as a hearing aid is undoubtedly the biggest feature coming to headphones this fall with iOS 18, there are two more major health features on the way. The first is Hearing Protection, which is on by default and ensures that you don’t blast your voice so loud that you cause permanent damage to your ears. In fact, you can now use AirPods Pro 2 as headphones during live concerts.
Another feature coming to AirPods Pro 2 is a hearing test that anyone can take at home to test their hearing. Apple says the test is “clinically validated” and can be performed at home in just five minutes. The company says the test uses real-world data and builds on learning from Apple Study programs. After completing the test, you will receive a personalized hearing profile.
While the AirPods 4 may be the only “new” AirPods the company is releasing this fall, the AirPods Pro 2 might even feel like new with all these new features. Hooray for headphones becoming upgradeable products!
