Apple expands into hearing aid market with new AirPods

Apple Inc. is one of the world's largest technology companies, known for its innovative products and services. Founded in 1976 by Steve Jobs, Steve Wozniak, and Ronald Wayne, Apple has grown into a global leader in consumer electronics, software, digital services and now hearing aids?!

What are Apple AirPods?

​Apple AirPods are wireless earbuds that connect to your iPhone via Bluetooth, they were first released in 2016 as a way of taking handsfree calls and listening to music wirelessly, since then Apples technology has come a long way since then. Apple’s newest release the AirPods Pro 2 have received much attention for their noise-cancelling and sound-amplifying features. But beyond convenience and music quality, they also hold the potential to serve as early-stage hearing assistance devices. The earbuds are designed with accessibility in mind, particularly for those who may be dealing with mild to moderate hearing loss.
 
The beauty of Apples AirPods is that it normalises hearing assistance for a younger, tech-savvy generation. Rather than waiting until hearing loss becomes severe, Apple’s new AirPods could encourage more people to address their hearing issues earlier in life. This proactive approach is especially important since hearing problems often develop slowly and can be more effectively managed if caught early.

How much do AirPods cost?

​AirPods provide an affordable alternative for people who may not yet be ready for private, more expensive hearing aids. Instead of delaying hearing assistance due to financial or social concerns, individuals can now start addressing their hearing health earlier and with confidence from just £229.00 direct from www.apple.co.uk
 
A key upgrade in the second-generation AirPods Pro is the new internal H2 chip, this advanced technology processes sound at an impressive rate of 48,000 times per second. For comparison, Phonak's latest hearing aid, from a leading hearing aid manufacturer, samples sound at 700 times per second. This cutting-edge technology enables the AirPods Pro 2 to deliver a broader range of sound with reduced distortion.

Are AirPods better than hearing aids?

​Apple’s AirPods Pro 2 technically are not hearing aids, although they do come with handy features like Conversation Boost, which enhances speech clarity and is particularly helpful in noisy environments. These features can assist people with mild hearing loss or those who need occasional help in specific settings.
 
These devices are ideal for individuals with mild hearing loss or those seeking occasional assistance in certain environments, making AirPods a practical and affordable choice. However, for moderate to severe hearing loss, traditional hearing aids are more effective and customisable for more advanced hearing needs. Each option has its place depending on the severity of hearing impairment and lifestyle requirements. Essentially Apple’s new AirPods Pro 2 can be viewed as an early-stage solution for hearing assistance, offering a bridge to traditional hearing aids for those who may not require them yet.

Alternative options for hearing assistance devices

​Another exciting development in the realm of hearing health is the introduction of the Signia Active Pro hearing aids. Starting from around £1100 these earbuds are specifically designed to look like regular wireless earbuds, a far cry from the days of clunky, unattractive hearing aids that drew unwanted attention. The Signia Active Pro is crafted with modern aesthetics in mind, resembling sleek earbuds that naturally fit into the active lifestyles of the younger generations.

These unique two-in-one earbuds combine state-of-the-art connectivity with high-definition prescription audio that you find in the most advanced hearing aids, they also feature a rechargeable element, rendering them not just functional but also eco-friendly and convenient. By providing cutting-edge hearing technology in a design that's almost indistinguishable from standard earbuds, Signia aims to break the stigma associated with wearing hearing aids.

Encouraging regular hearing health checkups

As we become more aware of the importance of early detection in healthcare, hearing health should be part of that conversation. Just as we regularly check our eyes and teeth, it's essential to incorporate hearing health checkups into our routine. Many people may not realise that hearing loss can be gradual, and by the time it’s noticed, it may already have had a significant impact on one’s quality of life.
 
By making hearing health accessible, stylish, and affordable, companies like Apple and Signia are not only providing practical solutions but also helping to shift public attitudes toward hearing care. Their innovations encourage younger generations to take proactive steps in maintaining their hearing health, reducing the stigma around hearing loss, and normalising regular hearing checkups.

How often should young people get hearing tests

​In the UK, it is recommended that young people should get a hearing test every 2-3 years if they do not have any hearing issues. However, if they notice changes in their hearing, experience ringing in the ears (tinnitus), or have been exposed to loud noises regularly (like concerts, nightclubs, loud working environments or headphones at high volumes), they should get tested more frequently. If you think you may need a hearing test read our blog on 6 signs you need a hearing test.