By Technology

A Step Towards Mainstreaming Hearing Health

TechCrunch recently got a glimpse of an incomplete version of Apple’s forthcoming Hearing Test app, which is set to be integrated into iOS 18. The app shares striking similarities with its clinical predecessors, prompting users to tap the display when they first hear gradually rising tones of different frequencies.

Key Similarities with Clinical Predecessors

The new app’s design and functionality bear a strong resemblance to traditional hearing tests. This similarity is not surprising, given that the ultimate goal of these tests is to accurately assess an individual’s auditory capabilities. By leveraging this tried-and-true approach, Apple aims to make hearing testing more accessible and user-friendly.

What to Expect from the Hearing Test App

  • Integration with iOS 18: The app will be a built-in feature in iOS 18, allowing users to take advantage of its functionality seamlessly.
  • FDA Approval: However, it is essential to note that Apple is currently awaiting FDA approval for both the hearing test and the newly announced hearing aid feature. While there’s a possibility that this approval could come through before iOS 18’s general availability on September 16, no guarantees have been made.

Enabling Hearing Aid Functionality

Users must have mild to moderate hearing loss in order to enable the hearing aid feature. This diagnosis doesn’t necessarily need to be conducted directly within the app; users can upload results from a third-party test as well. However, for those with severe or profound hearing loss, the app will advise seeking out a hearing specialist rather than attempting to correct the issue through the app.

Limitations of Consumer Electronics

It’s worth noting that there are inherent limitations to what consumer electronics can do in this regard. The space is relatively new, as the FDA only established over-the-counter hearing aids as a category in mid-2023. These limitations should be kept in mind when evaluating the capabilities and potential impact of the Hearing Test app.

Availability at Launch

The feature will only be available for the second-generation AirPods Pro at launch. This limited availability is due to two main factors:

  1. Passive Noise Canceling: The ear tips on the Pro provide passive noise canceling, which plays a significant role in ensuring an accurate test environment.
  2. H2 Chip: The inclusion of the H2 chip in the AirPods Pro also contributes to its unique features and capabilities.

Accessibility through iOS Settings

Once paired with a device and inserted into the wearer’s ears, users can access the hearing aid feature through iOS settings. The full version is expected to take around five minutes to complete.

Building Custom Sound Profiles

Once enabled, the hearing aid feature will build a custom sound profile based on the test results. This profile serves as the default for various types of media:

  • Conversations: The sound profile ensures clear and distinct communication.
  • Movies and Music: It also optimizes playback settings to provide an enhanced audio experience.

Potential Implications for Audio Customization

Apple’s approach to developing user-customizable sound profiles raises interesting questions about the future of mainstream audio customization. As seen with the Apple Watch’s AssistiveTouch accessibility feature, which laid the groundwork for its DoubleTap gesture, it is possible that this feature could become a standard component in various iOS features.

The Significance of Hearing Aid Customization

Nura’s attempt to spin customizable sound profiles into a standalone business offers an insightful parallel. By mainstreaming this feature, Apple may unlock new possibilities for enhancing the audio experience on their devices. This development is especially intriguing when considering the upcoming release of AirPods Pro 2.

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