I’ve been eagerly anticipating the acoustic analysis of Apple’s AirPods Pro Hearing Aid Feature since their release was announced in September 2024. Now, The Hearing Review has published a study conducted by the National Acoustic Laboratories, a research institution known for shaping clinical practices and advancing hearing aid technology. This study explores key performance metricsContinueContinue reading “Breaking Down the AirPods Pro Hearing Aid Feature: How Their Gain Stacks Up Against Traditional Hearing Aids”
Category Archives: OTC hearing aids
Understanding the Differences: Traditional Hearing Aids, OTC Hearing Aids, and PSAPs
As the hearing health landscape evolves, it’s essential to understand the differences between traditional hearing aids , the newer over-the-counter (OTC) hearing aids and Personal Sound Amplification Products (PSAP’s). This knowledge helps individuals make informed decisions about their hearing care and choose the best solution for their needs. This blog post is derived from aContinueContinue reading “Understanding the Differences: Traditional Hearing Aids, OTC Hearing Aids, and PSAPs”
Nuance Audio Glasses: Smart Hearing Aid Innovation for Modern Users
The world of hearing aid technology is constantly evolving, and the latest innovation from EssilorLuxottica is no exception. Their new Nuance Audio Glasses are set to revolutionize the market by combining cutting-edge hearing aid technology with stylish eyewear. These glasses are available in two shapes, two colors, and two sizes, retailing for $1100 a pair.ContinueContinue reading “Nuance Audio Glasses: Smart Hearing Aid Innovation for Modern Users”
FDA Approves Nuance Audio Glasses: A New Era for Hearing Aids
The concept of hearing aid glasses is not a new one. They have been around since the 1960’s with several companies attempting to produce them. Recently EssilorLuxottica has announced it received FDA clearance for the Nuance Audio glasses. They are set to launch commercially in the US in early 2025. According to IEEE Pulse theContinueContinue reading “FDA Approves Nuance Audio Glasses: A New Era for Hearing Aids”
The Future of Hearing: Do We Still Need Audiogram-Based Prescriptions in the Age of Over-The-Counter Hearing Aids?
Hearing aids are essential for individuals with permanent hearing loss, offering a primary solution to improve their hearing. These devices are customized to the user’s specific hearing needs, which are determined through an audiogram. An audiogram is created by having the patient listen and respond to pure tones, with the softest sounds they can hearContinueContinue reading “The Future of Hearing: Do We Still Need Audiogram-Based Prescriptions in the Age of Over-The-Counter Hearing Aids?”
Hearing Aid Feature in AirPods Pro 2 Explained
I reviewed the De Novo Classification request for the “Hearing Aid Feature” (HAF) which refers to the software within the AirPods Pro 2 (hardware) to allow them to function as OTC hearing aids. It is described as “a software-only mobile medical application that is intended to be used with compatible wearable electronic products”. The indicationsContinueContinue reading “Hearing Aid Feature in AirPods Pro 2 Explained”
What Google Trends Reveal About Public Interest in OTC Hearing Aids
A big topic in the Audiology world is OTC hearing aids, especially since Apple announced their Hearing Aid Feature in AirPods. There is still a lot of uncertainty around the product and the interest amongst the general public. I reviewed an article by Panth et al who studied the trends in OTC hearing aid informationContinueContinue reading “What Google Trends Reveal About Public Interest in OTC Hearing Aids”
Colorism and Structural Bias in Over-The-Counter Hearing Aid Color Options
One of the things that has always bothered me about the hearing aid space, is the lack of a variety of skin tone options for mid to darker skin tones. Recently I went on a deep-dive of information seeking about Over-the-Counter (OTC) hearing aids. I came across a fascinating article by Kirjava and Faulkner (2024)ContinueContinue reading “Colorism and Structural Bias in Over-The-Counter Hearing Aid Color Options”
Understanding Over-The-Counter Hearing Aids
Navigating the world of hearing aids can be overwhelming, especially with the introduction of over-the-counter (OTC) options. The American Academy of Audiology provides valuable insights into what OTC hearing aids are and who they are best suited for. What Are OTC Hearing Aids? OTC hearing aids are devices designed to amplify sound, making it easier forContinueContinue reading “Understanding Over-The-Counter Hearing Aids”
FDA Authorizes Apple’s “Hearing Aid Feature” to Allow AirPods to Function as OTC Hearing Aids
On Sept 12, 2024 the FDA issued the necessary authorization to Apple to allow their latest AirPods to have a “Hearing Aid Feature” and Hearing Protection. This is made possible by the FDA’s October 2022 authorization to allow for a new category of hearing devices called “Over-The-Counter Hearing Aids”. These differ from Prescription Hearing aidsContinueContinue reading “FDA Authorizes Apple’s “Hearing Aid Feature” to Allow AirPods to Function as OTC Hearing Aids”
Dr. White, AuD 