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Apple Might Double AirPods As Health Devices You Can Use On The Go
By Alexa Heah, 14 Oct 2021
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Image via Apple
Earlier this month, Apple introduced a new ‘Conversation Boost’ feature to AirPod Pros, enabling those hard of hearing to amplify voices around them. Soon, the company could have even greater health ambitions for its earbuds.
According to The Wall Street Journal, the tech giant has been looking at ways to expand the AirPods’ health functions, doubling them as hearing aids or a thermometer. Leaked documents suggest motion sensors could be attached to the earbuds, allowing them to correct users’ postures whenever they sense slouching.
However, as with other insider reports, it’s not confirmed that Apple will act on these rumors at all. The sources also said these new features may only be available from 2022 onwards.
As Engadget noted, the tech firm would have to receive clearance for a whole slew of regulations before it could market AirPods as health devices. Despite the US Food and Drug Administration being slated for a rule change in 2022, it still won’t be a small feat.
Still, Apple could choose to pursue this line of innovation as an accompaniment to its Apple Watch, which already comes packed with multiple health functions.
While it’s still unclear if these health functions will ever see the light of day, it’s heartening to see tech companies move towards innovations that could aid humanity, too. Soon, AirPods could join Bose’s FDA-cleared hearing aids, allowing individuals with disabilities to get a hold of these helpful devices without a prescription.
[via Engadget, cover image via Apple]
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