Samsung Introduces Hearing Aid Functionality in Galaxy Buds
Following in Apple’s footsteps, Samsung is set to incorporate a hearing aid feature into select Galaxy Buds earphones.
The company has secured clearance from the FDA, permitting it to deploy the feature across the United States. This innovative hearing aid functionality will be released gradually later this year.
Once available, compatible Galaxy Buds will operate as hearing aids, thereby alleviating the need for users to invest in typically more expensive over-the-counter (OTC) alternatives.
Functionality of Samsung’s Hearing Aid Feature
Samsung is launching a Hearing Test capability, classified as Software as a Medical Device. This feature enables users to complete the Hearing Test within a mere five minutes directly through the Galaxy Buds settings.
The software evaluates each ear independently, generating an audiogram akin to those produced by an audiologist during a professional hearing examination.
Utilizing the test results, the Hearing Aid feature dynamically adjusts amplification to cater to each user’s hearing profile. Samsung employs the NAL-NL2 fitting formula, routinely utilized in prescription hearing aids.
Moreover, Samsung has integrated functionalities typically found in premium hearing aids, including advanced noise reduction and beamforming technology.
Beamforming sharpens focus on sounds originating directly in front of the user while minimizing ambient noise interference.
Referencing the World Health Organisation, Samsung highlights that over 1.5 billion individuals worldwide suffer from hearing loss.
Alarmingly, many who could benefit from hearing aids do not utilize them, often due to prohibitive costs, societal stigma, or limited access to professional healthcare services.
By embedding hearing support within wireless earbuds, Samsung aims to democratize access to auditory assistance.
Furthermore, information pertaining to users’ hearing, including noise exposure levels and the results of hearing assessments, will be accessible via the Samsung Health app. This integration will facilitate a comprehensive overview of users’ auditory health.

Availability
The upcoming Hearing Aid and Hearing Test features are slated to become available on the Galaxy Buds 3 Pro and Galaxy Buds 4 Pro in the United States and select approved markets during the fourth quarter of 2026.
Source link: Thehansindia.com.





