A new feature in Apple’s latest AirPods Pro, which has gone unnoticed by many, could make a significant difference. The company announced that AirPods Pro can now be used as a real hearing aid for people with mild hearing loss. This feature is exciting, especially for those looking for alternatives to expensive hearing aids.
AirPods Pro is now officially a health device
During its recent event where Apple introduced new iPhone models, perhaps the most important update went unnoticed. The company revealed that AirPods Pro would gain the functionality of a real hearing aid. This news offers hope for millions of people who suffer from hearing problems.
The hearing aid market, especially in the U.S., has been growing rapidly since over-the-counter sales were approved in 2022. However, the current devices are quite expensive. Even the cheapest models start at around $300, with prices reaching up to $2,000. Hearing aids designed for clinical use can cost as much as $5,000, making them inaccessible to many.
Apple has announced a significant hike in its out-of-warranty battery replacement fees for the new iPhone 16 Pro models.
What’s most striking about Apple’s move is that it will add this feature to existing AirPods Pro models without any additional costs or subscription fees. Users can start using this feature after installing the iOS 18 or equivalent 2024 software updates.
Using AirPods Pro as a hearing aid offers significant advantages, particularly for older users. Traditional hearing aids can be difficult and tiring to use and maintain. Micro batteries, small buttons, and complex settings often discourage people from using these devices. AirPods Pro, on the other hand, is easy to use, rechargeable, and can be controlled effortlessly through a smartphone app. While users eagerly await the official release of this feature, it remains to be seen how competitors in the hearing aid market will respond to this development.
