Apple’s AirPods: From Entertainment to Health: A Closer Look at the Future of Wearable Technology

Apple’s AirPods have been receiving useful updates through software, and it is expected that they will receive even more health features with the upcoming iOS 18. Apple already offers various health-related features with the Apple Watch, mobility features like walking steadiness detection on the iPhone, and safety features like fall detection and emergency SOS.

Rumors about the upcoming AirPods have been discussed in the latest episode of One More Thing, including the possibility of a hearing aid mode launching with iOS 18. Speculations suggest that AirPods could integrate more sensors in the future, such as an EEG for detecting brain activity. Although Apple filed a patent in 2023 showing such a sensor embedded in earbuds, it remains to be seen if it will be implemented.

There were rumors a few years ago about the AirPods Pro getting a heart rate and body temperature sensor, but this feature has not materialized yet. Other earbuds like the recently released Sennheiser Momentum Sport already offer such features. Having all this data consolidated in one’s workout app without having to wear both a watch and earbuds while working out is genuinely helpful.

The potential for AirPods to further Apple’s health ambitions is significant, especially since they are an affordable entry point into Apple’s wearable line. Even if the patents mentioned never become a reality, Apple’s exploration of ways to enhance its wearables from entertainment devices to fully-fledged health tools is commendable.