Apple's AirPods Pro are set to revolutionize hearing assistance with the FDA's approval of the first over-the-counter (OTC) hearing aid software. This landmark decision allows individuals with perceived mild to moderate hearing loss to utilize widely available consumer audio products, such as Apple's AirPods, as hearing aids. The move aims to address the significant public health issue of hearing loss by increasing the availability, accessibility, and acceptability of hearing support.
AirPods Pro as Hearing Aids
According to Apple, the latest AirPods Pro will incorporate Hearing Test and Hearing Aid features, offering a comprehensive hearing health experience. John Ternus, Apple’s senior vice president of hardware engineering, stated that this update will deliver groundbreaking new capabilities to help more than a billion people affected by hearing loss. This integration eliminates the need for separate, dedicated hearing aids for many users, streamlining the process and potentially reducing costs.
FDA's Stance on Accessibility
Michelle Tarver, acting director of FDA’s Center for Devices and Radiological Health, emphasized the importance of this authorization in addressing the public health impact of hearing loss. The FDA's approval marks a significant step toward making hearing support more readily available to adults with mild to moderate hearing impairments.
Quality Control and Oversight
In related news, the FDA issued warning letters to two Chinese nonclinical testing laboratories due to laboratory oversight failures and animal care violations. Owen Faris, PhD, acting director of the office of product evaluation and quality in the FDA’s Center for Devices and Radiological Health, stressed the importance of safety, effectiveness, and quality in the medical device industry. The FDA is committed to protecting patients, consumers, and the medical device supply chain from quality failures and violative practices, reminding the industry of their responsibility and accountability for all data included in their submissions.
