Bose is entering the hearing aid game

The future of hearing aids is upon us. Bose, the company known for making speakers, headphones and more, has been approved by the FDA to market the first-of-its-kind hearing aid.

The Bose approach to hearing aids is different from traditional hearing aids because no healthcare provider will be required for setup. According to an FDA press release, this hearing aid can be fitted, programmed and controlled without the help of a doctor, and the audio levels can easily be adjusted through an app.

The Bose Hearing Aid is meant for individuals 18 years or older with perceived mild to moderate hearing impairment.

Removing visits to traditional healthcare providers from the process of acquiring a hearing aid is a step towards making healthcare even more accessible for some patients, according to the FDA.

“Hearing loss is a significant public health issue, especially as individuals age,” said Malvina Eydelman, M.D., director of the Division of Ophthalmic, and Ear, Nose and Throat Devices at the FDA’s Center for Devices and Radiological Health, said in the press release. “Today’s marketing authorization provides certain patients with access to a new hearing aid that provides them with direct control over the fit and functionality of the device. The FDA is committed to ensuring that individuals with hearing loss have options for taking an active role in their health care.”

According to The Center For Hearing and Communication, 48 million Americans experience “significant hearing loss,” which can be present at birth or happen over time due to exposure to loud noises, like music or trains.

Clearly, there’s a market for a hearing aid that’s accessible and easy to use.

Bose spokesperson Joanne Berhiaume said in a statement to TechCrunch that the company looks forward to providing the Bose Hearing Aid to customers.

“We look forward to bringing affordable, accessible and great-sounding solutions to the millions of people who could benefit from hearing aids but don’t use them,” she said.

What do you think of this healthcare innovation?