Tech giant Apple claims its latest wireless earphones could soon be used as ‘clinical level hearing aids’
Apple last night claimed that its wireless earphones could soon be used as ‘clinical level’ hearing aids.
The tech giant said that AirPods will have the feature with its next software update and it will boost sounds in real time.
Parts of speech will be enhanced, the company said.
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By continuing you agree to our Terms and Privacy Policy.The free update to the Bluetooth earbuds will be available later this month as part of iOS 18 – Apple’s operating system for its mobile devices.
The move could shake up the hearing aid market because over-the-counter hearing aids cost £400 (AUD$785) or more.
AirPods Pro 2 cost around £200 (AUD$392). After updating, users take a clinically-validated hearing test – five times.
The results can then be viewed in the phone’s health app.
At its annual product announcement, Apple said the hearing test is currently being approved by US regulators and that it expected approval ‘soon’.
If hearing loss is detected then the hearing aid mode will become available to use. Apple also announced a feature for the 10th edition of its Apple Watch which will tell users if it suspects they have sleep apnea – a disorder that causes you to stop breathing while asleep.
Apple boss Tim Cook also confirmed the arrival of its iPhone 16, showcasing its artiUpdated: New AirPods ficial intelligence capabilities.
