In a significant development for both technology and healthcare, Apple has received FDA approval on September 12, 2024, allowing its AirPods Pro 2 to function as hearing aids. This new feature enables users to test their hearing and receive assisted listening, making the AirPods Pro 2 a more accessible option for those with hearing impairments. Priced at $249, the AirPods Pro 2 offer a considerably lower cost compared to traditional clinical-grade hearing aids, which can often be prohibitively expensive for many consumers. FDA acting director Michelle Tarver emphasized the public health impact of hearing loss, noting that over a billion people globally experience mild to moderate hearing loss. The new hearing aid features will be available in over 100 countries, pending approvals from health authorities in those regions.
This innovative move by Apple aligns with the company's ongoing efforts to integrate health features across its devices, including the Apple Watch. The introduction of hearing aid capabilities in AirPods not only showcases Apple's commitment to enhancing user experience but also addresses a pressing public health issue. As the tech giant continues to expand its role in health technology, the potential for AirPods to serve as a dual-purpose deviceāboth for music and hearing assistanceāmarks a significant advancement in consumer electronics.
Meanwhile, the ongoing concerns regarding Apple's AirTags have not diminished. The tech giant is still facing a class-action lawsuit over privacy issues related to its digital tracking devices. Plaintiffs allege that Apple failed to adequately address the misuse of AirTags, which have been linked to stalking incidents, including at least 150 police reports. Apple has defended its work on AirTags, stating that the devices have built-in privacy features, yet the lawsuit reflects broader concerns about user safety and privacy in the digital age.
In a related incident, a family at Disney World experienced the alarming consequences of AirTags being misused. After receiving a notification that they were being tracked, the family took immediate action to protect themselves. Security experts have warned that while AirTags can be useful, they also pose risks if misused. In response to these concerns, Apple and Google have introduced a new feature to alert users when unfamiliar Bluetooth tracking devices are detected moving with them, aimed at combating unauthorized tracking.
As Apple prepares for the release of the second-generation AirTag, expected in mid-2025, the company is also focusing on enhancing user privacy and security. The upcoming AirTag is anticipated to feature improved range and location tracking capabilities, alongside built-in detection features to address privacy concerns. This proactive approach comes as Apple faces increasing scrutiny over the safety and privacy implications of its devices.
In addition to these developments, Appleās third-generation AirPods are currently on sale for $140 on Amazon, a 17 percent discount from their regular price of $170. Released in 2021, these AirPods feature improved sound quality and a more compact design, powered by Apple's H1 chip, which enables features like always-on Siri and one-touch fast pairing. The sale price represents a record low for the third-gen AirPods, further highlighting Apple's focus on consumer accessibility in its product offerings.