Gurman: AirPods Pro to Gain 'Hearing Aid Mode' in iOS 18
MacRumors
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Contributed by: Reid Stephan
Summary
AirPods Pro is expected to introduce a "hearing aid mode" with the upcoming iOS 18 release later this year, as reported by Bloomberg's Mark Gurman. This feature, previously speculated in 2021, aims to cater to users with hearing impairments, though it should be noted that AirPods Pro are not classified as hearing aids by the FDA, requiring regulatory approval for such designation. Apple's innovation comes alongside the introduction of over-the-counter Personal Sound Amplification Products (PSAPs), which amplify sounds for non-hearing impaired users, indicating a potential shift in how tech can aid hearing without the stringent regulations tied to medical devices. The exact details of how Apple will navigate FDA requirements for this feature remain unclear, including whether it will be marked explicitly as a tool for those with impaired hearing.
