Apple Announces New Tinnitus Research, Continues Dive Into Hearing Health

Apple has revealed preliminary findings from its ongoing hearing health study, indicating that about 15% of participants experience daily tinnitus, a condition characterized by a persistent noise or ringing heard only by the affected individual. Conducted with the University of Michigan and WHO, the research found that older adults are more likely to report tinnitus, aligning with existing knowledge about age-related hearing loss.

The study, involving over 160,000 participants, aims to enhance understanding of tinnitus across different demographics and develop better management strategies. Apple's commitment to hearing health research reflects the increasing need for solutions, particularly among younger populations exposed to noise through devices like headphones and earbuds.

Apple recently disclosed preliminary findings from its ongoing hearing health study, revealing significant insights into the prevalence and impact of tinnitus1. The study, which surveyed over 160,000 participants, found that approximately 15% of the respondents experience tinnitus daily14. Moreover, 10% of these individuals reported that their tinnitus moderately or completely interferes with their ability to hear clearly. Notably, almost 78% of the participants have experienced tinnitus at some point in their lives, with older adults more likely to report its occurrence14. These insights are part of a larger effort by Apple, in collaboration with the University of Michigan and the World Health Organization, to enhance the understanding and management of tinnitus through extensive data collection and analysis facilitated by the Research App145.