Apple’s AirPods Pro 2 have gained hearing aid functionality in South Africa, marking a significant development for the South African hearing-impaired community.
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While Apple’s website does not explicitly list South Africa as an approved market for this feature, tech journalist Nafisa Akabor has confirmed its availability for South African iPhone and iPad users running iOS 18 or iPadOS 18 and the latest AirPods Pro 2 firmware.
This development is particularly significant given the high cost of traditional hearing aids in South Africa, which can range from R10,000 to R100,000. Long waiting lists for publicly funded devices and limited medical aid coverage often hinder access to hearing healthcare for many South Africans.
The AirPods Pro 2, priced at R5,499, offer a more affordable and accessible option for those seeking hearing assistance. However, it’s crucial to note that the South African Health Products Regulatory Authority has not yet formally approved the AirPods Pro 2 as a hearing aid device.
Professor De Wet Swanepoel of the University of Pretoria emphasized the groundbreaking nature of this feature, highlighting its potential to improve access to hearing healthcare in South Africa.
This development underscores the potential of innovative technology to improve accessibility and affordability in the healthcare sector.
