FDA approves OTC hearing aid software; know the potential limitations
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In September, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration approved Apple's Hearing Aid Feature (HAF). It is the first over-the-counter hearing aid software that can be used with a version of the AirPods Pro earbuds to increase sounds for people over 18 with mild to moderate hearing loss. Deyanira Gonzalez, audiologist at Baylor College of Medicine, explains the impact of this software, what to be aware of if planning to use it and how to know if you're experiencing hearing loss.
The Hearing Aid Feature can be adjusted to a person's hearing needs, such as volume, tone and balance. Gonzalez said this software may be beneficial for those with mild to moderate hearing loss.
"The hearing aid software may be an appropriate option for someone who is not ready for prescription hearing aids – the ones that are fitted by an audiologist or hearing dispenser in an office setting with hearing testing equipment, real ear measurements and speech mapping," said Gonzalez.
However, Gonzalez said the Hearing Aid Feature does have limitations and is not the same as a hearing aid. For example, it requires the user to program the software themselves, rather than with the assistance of a trained professional. HAF may also not be ideal for extended use.
"Consider your comfort when wearing the AirPods for a long period of time; everyone's ear canal shape is different,” Gonzalez said. “Also, the listening time on these is about six hours compared to the battery life of a regular rechargeable hearing aid, which is 30 hours.”
Without the assistance of an audiologist, Gonzalez said it can be challenging for someone to determine the severity of their hearing loss. Hearing loss is something that Gonzalez says is not tested often or enough. The majority of the older population will experience some kind of hearing loss, but some people may wait years to do something about it.
Signs of hearing loss can include:
- Asking people around you to repeat themselves
- Misunderstanding words that sound similar, especially with background noise
- Increasing the volume on your television
- Tinnitus (ringing in the ears)
People with hearing loss should consult an audiologist for a hearing evaluation and to discuss the best hearing options for their lifestyle.
"As audiologists, we want to give someone a treatment plan, and provide the best recommendations based on their individual case," Gonzalez said.