Apple introduces hearing aid feature in AirPods Pro 2

admin 2024年11月10日

science & technology, science & technology - expert

Vocabulary:

I will read the words, meanings, and sample sentences. Then, repeat after me.

stigma /STIG-muh/

[noun] – a strong feeling of disapproval that most people in a society have about something, especially when this is unfair
Wearing glasses used to carry a certain stigma, but now they are often seen as a fashion accessory.

drawback /DRAW-bak/

[noun] – a disadvantage or the negative part of a situation
One drawback of living in the city is the high cost of rent.

isolation /ahy-suh-LEY-shuhn/

[noun] – the state of being separated from others
The remote location of the village adds to its isolation from the outside world.

amplify /AM-pluh-fahy/

[verb] – to make something louder
The speakers are designed to amplify the sound at outdoor events.

accessibility /ak-ses-uh-BIL-uh-tee/

[noun] – the quality of being easy to reach, obtain, or use, especially for people with disabilities
Many websites are now required to enhance accessibility for visually impaired users.

Article reading:

Please read the whole article. Then, I will check your pronunciation and intonation.

Apple recently added a hearing aid feature to its AirPods Pro 2, providing a new option for millions of Americans with hearing loss. With this software update, these earbuds can now function as hearing aids. Experts say this move may reduce the stigma around hearing aids, making it easier for more people to seek help with hearing. Many avoid hearing aids due to cost, appearance, or discomfort, but this feature on a familiar device could change that.

The addition comes as U.S. regulations changed in 2022, allowing people to buy hearing aids over-the-counter without a prescription. Though AirPods offer advanced sound settings, they have limitations: they are not designed for all-day wear, and their battery life may be shorter than traditional hearing aids. Additionally, wearing earbuds may give the impression that a person does not want to be disturbed, though for many users, this is a small drawback. Hearing loss affects 15% of Americans and can lead to serious health concerns, including isolation, cognitive decline, and even a higher risk of falls. For those who cannot afford dedicated hearing aids, smartphones and apps are helpful tools. Some phones, like the iPhone, offer features such as “Live Listen” to amplify sound or convert speech to text. Apple’s new feature in AirPods adds to these resources, expanding the accessibility of hearing care options and making it easier for people to stay connected and healthy.

Discussion Questions:

I will read each question. Then, please answer them.

Have you ever felt uncomfortable or self-conscious using a specific device in public, like headphones or a smartphone? If so, why did you feel that way? If not, why do you think some people feel self-conscious about using devices?
Have you ever felt that using certain technology helped you feel more connected or independent? If so, what was the technology, and how did it help you? If not, can you think of any technology that could improve your connection or independence?
Do you agree that more people will consider using hearing aids now that they are available in familiar devices like AirPods?
What other accessibility features do you think should be added to everyday devices, and how would these benefit people?
Do you think there are any downsides to relying on multi-functional devices like AirPods for health-related needs? Why or why not?

Summarization

Please summarize the whole article using your own words and expressions. You will have one minute to prepare before you answer.

Describe:

Please explain the definition of each word listed below based on your understanding. You can provide example sentences if needed.

app
hearing aid
resource
hearing loss
smartphone