AirPods Pro might have “hearing aid mode”
We often take the versatility of smartphones for granted. These devices seemingly gain new and exciting features simply by downloading and installing new apps.
In 2009, Apple used that versatility as a marketing slogan: “There’s an app for that.” Fortunately, it might do the same for its humble AirPod Pro kits.
Renowned tech insider Mark Gurman announced that Apple might release a “hearing aid mode” for its wireless earphones.
Soon, AirPod enthusiasts may help their ears pick up more sounds by toggling a feature on their favorite gadget.
What do we know about hearing aid mode?
iOS 18 will introduce a new hearing aid mode for AirPods Pro, according to @markgurman
— iGeeksBlog (@igeeksblog) March 11, 2024
Among other things, iOS 18 will feature major AI and design updates.#iOS18 #AirPods pic.twitter.com/RXHDfWVQLN
Lifewire says the hearing aid mode may help more people with hearing loss.
They could save more time and money by getting AirPod Pros instead of visiting a specialist and getting a prescription pair.
The news site reiterates that the new setting will unlikely replace personally tailored hearing implements. AirPods are unlikely to help people with extreme hearing loss or deafness.
However, those with mild problems could have an option instead of doing nothing. Moreover, it could remove the stigma of getting conventional hearing aids.
The hearing mode may combine two of the AirPod’s features: transparency mode and headphone accommodations. The former lets users hear ambient sounds while listening to music.
It lowers and raises the volume, depending on the noise level. The latter adjusts to your hearing based on your audiogram, a chart that shows hearing test results.
READ: More young people use hearing aids
“With Headphone Accommodations, you can upload your audiogram, and it adjusts the sound to your needs,” app designer and deaf iPhone user Graham Bower told Lifewire via direct message.
“This, this will be a game changer for people with mild hearing loss for whom it’s not worth spending thousands of bucks on hearing aids,” he added.
The price of AirPods’ 3rd generation is $169 a pair, as of posting time.
“Only one-third of people who could benefit from a hearing aid actually get one,” said Rebecca Lewis, the audiology director at Providence Saint John’s Health Center.
Soon, the hearing aid setting may provide more assistance.
