Apple announces the world's first earbuds with hearing aids

Apple has unveiled its latest innovation, the AirPods Pro 2, set to launch this fall. These cutting-edge earbuds are designed to not only deliver superior audio quality but also address and prevent hearing issues.

The AirPods Pro 2 are described as the “world’s first all-in-one listening experience”, aiming to combine exceptional sound quality with advanced hearing health features. The new earbuds are intended not just for those with existing hearing problems but also for individuals who want to protect their ears from the damage caused by prolonged exposure to high volumes.

Key features include volume reduction, a scientifically validated hearing test, and clinically-level hearing aid functionality. These innovations represent a significant leap from previous models, providing unprecedented support for hearing health.

Apple highlighted a statistic from the World Health Organization, which estimates that around 1.5 billion people worldwide live with hearing loss. With this in mind, the company emphasized that the new product is the culmination of years of research and development in hearing health.

Hearing health support extends beyond the AirPods Pro 2. Apple has updated the "Noise" app on the Apple Watch to monitor audio levels and send alerts when noise exposure needs to be reduced. Additionally, integration with iPhone and barrier-free hearing features complete an ecosystem that encompasses prevention, awareness, and assistance.

In terms of performance, the AirPods Pro 2 do not disappoint. They offer up to twice the active noise cancellation of previous models and include adaptive audio features that customize noise cancellation based on the surrounding environment. The personalized spatial audio ensures an immersive experience tailored to the user’s individual preferences.

Despite its innovations, the AirPods Pro 2 are priced starting at €229. Sumbul Desai, MD and Apple’s Vice President of Health, stated, “Hearing health is a crucial part of our overall well-being, but it is often overlooked”. Desai also noted that, according to the Apple Hearing Study, 75% of people with diagnosed hearing loss do not receive appropriate care.

With this new product, Apple aims to bridge this gap and promote greater awareness and prevention of hearing issues. The AirPods Pro 2 represent not just an advancement in audio technology but also a significant contribution to global hearing health.