苹果将上线听力健康检测功能，“辅听耳机”将成新一代助听器？

Investment Rating - The report indicates a positive outlook for the hearing health detection feature introduced by Apple, suggesting that "assistive hearing devices" may become the next generation of hearing aids [1][3]. Core Insights - Apple is set to launch a hearing health detection feature in AirPods Pro2, which includes a clinical-grade hearing aid mode and regular hearing tests for users, expected to be available in over 100 countries by fall 2024 [1][3]. - Hearing loss currently affects over 1.5 billion people globally, with projections indicating that by 2050, this number could rise to 2.5 billion, necessitating rehabilitation services for at least 700 million individuals [3][5]. - The establishment of a new OTC (over-the-counter) hearing aid category by the FDA has opened the market, allowing consumers to purchase hearing aids directly online, thus increasing competition and accessibility [10][11]. Summary by Sections Hearing Loss Overview - Hearing loss is irreversible and can significantly impact communication, cognitive development, education, and interpersonal relationships [2]. - The World Health Organization's report categorizes hearing loss into six levels, with moderate or greater hearing loss affecting approximately 430 million people globally [3][5]. Market Dynamics - The hearing aid market in China is experiencing double-digit growth, with sales reaching 14.05 million units in 2021 and an annual growth rate of 15.34% over the past decade [13]. - Imported brands dominate the high-end hearing aid market, holding about 90% market share, while domestic brands account for less than 10% [13]. Technological Innovations - The integration of AI technology in hearing aids aims to enhance user experience in noisy environments by optimizing signal-to-noise ratios [8][11]. - The distinction between traditional hearing aids and consumer headphones with assistive features is blurring, as both utilize similar algorithms to adjust sound frequencies for users with hearing loss [11][12]. Investment Trends - Recent financing activities in the hearing aid sector indicate growing interest, with several companies securing significant funding for development and innovation [14][16].