Apple gets FDA approval for AirPods Pro 2’s hearing aid feature

Key Points:

1. Apple’s AirPods Pro 2 now has FDA approval for hearing aid functionality.
2. This feature is designed for users with mild to moderate hearing loss.
3. Clinical studies confirmed the effectiveness and safety of the feature.

Apple recently received FDA approval for a groundbreaking new feature in its AirPods Pro 2: a hearing aid function. Earlier this week, Apple had announced this innovation but was waiting on official clearance from the FDA. Now that the approval has been granted, the hearing aid mode will be available later this year.

FDA’s Announcement

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration confirmed that this is the first-ever over-the-counter (OTC) hearing aid software integrated into Apple’s AirPods Pro 2. This means users can enable the feature directly through the AirPods, without needing traditional hearing aids. It’s intended for adults aged 18 or older with mild to moderate hearing loss. Once customized to the user’s specific needs, the feature amplifies sound, offering a convenient solution for hearing enhancement.

Testing and Approval

Before approval, Apple’s hearing aid function went through rigorous clinical trials. The study involved 118 participants, all with varying degrees of hearing loss. The results showed that the feature was not only effective but also posed no safety risks. This makes Apple the first company to receive FDA authorization for a software-based hearing aid solution, which is a significant milestone for the tech giant.

What This Means for AirPods Pro 2

With the new hearing aid feature, the AirPods Pro 2 will be more versatile than ever. Users who suffer from hearing difficulties can benefit from this easy-to-use, tech-forward solution. This update is expected to roll out later in 2024.

For those interested, the AirPods Pro 2 is currently available at a discounted price of $199.