The US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) recently authorized the first over-the-counter (OTC) hearing aid software, the Hearing Aid feature for use with Apple’s AirPods Pro 2.[1] The headphone software has been given the green light and, as Apple states, “It’s the world's first all-in-one hearing health experience—and will be available with a free software update.”[2]
In this week’s New Tech Tuesday, we look at the latest development in microelectromechanical systems (MEMS) audio technology and how millions will benefit from it.
In a New Tech Tuesday published earlier this year, From Smartphones to Hearing Aids: The Versatility of MEMS Audio, we explored how MEMS technology has significantly transformed the audio industry. As MEMS technology advanced, it was only a matter of time before the market devised more uses for MEMS speakers, including their use in hearing aids.
Hearing aids assist by amplifying sounds and improving the clarity of the audio signal using components like microphones, amplifiers, digital signal processors (DSPs), and receivers (speakers). The microphone(s) capture the analog sound waves from the environment and convert them into an electrical signal. The amplifier(s) increase the strength of the electrical signal, making the sound louder and easier to hear. The DSPs filter and enhance specific frequencies to improve clarity and reduce background noise, tailoring the sound to the user's specific hearing loss profile. The speaker converts the processed amplified electrical signals back into analog sound waves and delivers them to the ear canal. By adjusting and compensating the frequencies for the damaged areas in our hearing, hearing aids enable users to perceive sound more clearly, enhancing their ability to communicate and engage with their environment.
The recent FDA announcement should be music to the ears of people with hearing loss, especially age-related hearing loss. Through minimal customization, Apple’s AirPods Pro 2 can amplify sounds for individuals with mild to moderate hearing impairment, effectively becoming clinical-grade hearing aids.[3]
Soon, users will be able to use an iPhone or iPad with the AirPods Pro 2 to run a hearing test without a medical appointment. The Hearing Test feature test takes approximately five minutes, at which point the user will see their personalized hearing profile in an easy-to-understand format that will transform their AirPods Pro 2 into an OTC hearing aid.
This week’s New Tech Tuesday showcases innovative audio processing devices from Analog Devices and Microchip Technology.
The Analog Devices ADAU1860-1 are advanced low-power audio codecs ideal for noise-canceling applications. The device’s three analog-to-digital converters (ADCs) offer a 106dB signal-to-noise ratio (SNR), while the digital-to-analog converter (DAC) achieves 110dB SNR with a -95dB total harmonic distortion plus noise (THD + N) ratio. The codec features two DSP cores: A Tensilica HiFi 3z, which is great for low-power audio but can also handle complex tasks, and a FastDSP core, optimized for noise cancellation with a simplified instruction set.
The Microchip MCP6072x family of operational amplifiers (op amps) are designed for amplifying and processing analog signals in various electronic circuits, including audio, ADC driver, DAC buffer, and test and measurement. The op amps feature on-chip EMI filters for enhanced protection against electromagnetic interference. The chips offer rail-to-rail output for maximum dynamic range and low noise for clean signal amplification.
Technology has brought us countless innovations that boost our health and help us live longer. A lot of this technology happens behind the scenes in hospitals and labs or within complex, pricey equipment. But sometimes, these breakthroughs become readily accessible, making it easier for everyone who needs them to benefit. That is the case with Apple’s AirPods Pro 2. These wireless audio devices are already trendy and popular, and now they’re set to help break the stigma around hearing loss, potentially helping millions regain their hearing.
Sources:
[1] https://www.fda.gov/news-events/press-announcements/fda-authorizes-first-over-counter-hearing-aid-software [2] https://www.apple.com/airpods-pro/hearing-health/ [3] https://www.apple.com/newsroom/2024/09/apple-introduces-airpods-4-and-a-hearing-health-experience-with-airpods-pro-2/
Rudy Ramos brings 35+ years of expertise in advanced electromechanical systems, robotics, pneumatics, vacuum systems, high voltage, semiconductor manufacturing, military hardware, and project management. Rudy has authored technical articles appearing in engineering websites and holds a BS in Technical Management and an MBA with a concentration in Project Management. Prior to Mouser, Rudy worked for National Semiconductor and Texas Instruments..
