As the world's leading investment manager and financial market journalist, I am thrilled to share the latest news from Apple's GlowTime event. iOS 18 will soon feature a groundbreaking new capability that allows users with mild to moderate hearing loss to utilize AirPods as hearing aids. This announcement has caused quite a stir in the tech world, with many eagerly anticipating the release of this innovative feature.
What's even more exciting is that just days after the announcement, Apple received approval from the FDA for this revolutionary technology. The FDA has hailed this as the first "over-the-counter hearing aid software," marking a significant advancement in accessibility for adults with hearing loss. With the availability of this feature, individuals with mild to moderate hearing loss will have greater access to hearing support than ever before.
TechCrunch's Brian Heater had the opportunity to test out an early version of this feature and was impressed by its capabilities. However, it's worth noting that the feature will only be compatible with Apple's latest premium earbuds, the AirPods Pro 2, due to the Pro's unique features such as passive noise cancellation and the H2 chip.
In today's TechCrunch Minute, we delve into the details of Apple's innovative hearing test and explore how the market for hearing aids is evolving in response to this groundbreaking technology. This development has the potential to revolutionize the way individuals with hearing loss access support and could have a significant impact on the market for hearing aid devices.
In conclusion, Apple's latest announcement regarding the use of AirPods as hearing aids is a game-changer in the tech industry and has the potential to transform the lives of individuals with mild to moderate hearing loss. As an investor or consumer, it's important to stay informed about these advancements and consider how they may impact your financial and personal well-being. Stay tuned for more updates on this exciting development!