Hearables as a Gateway to Hearing Health Care: A Review
Hye Yoon Seol, Il Joon Moon
Abstract
The market for hearing technology is evolving-with the emergence of hearables, it now extends beyond hearing aids and includes any ear-level devices with wireless connectivity (i.e., wireless earbuds). However, will this evolving marketplace bring forth opportunities or challenges to individuals' hearing health care and the profession of audiology and otolaryngology? The debate has been ongoing. This study explores the wide spectrum of hearables available in the market and discusses the necessity of high-quality clinical evidence prior to the implementation of over-the-counter devices into clinical practice.
Topics & Concepts
Gateway (web page)MedicineHealth careAudiologyOtorhinolaryngologyQuality (philosophy)Hearing lossWirelessPublic relationsMedical educationTelecommunicationsComputer scienceWorld Wide WebPolitical sciencePsychiatryPhilosophyEpistemologyLawHearing Loss and RehabilitationNoise Effects and ManagementEar Surgery and Otitis Media