Apple asks FCC to recognize MFi hearing aids

Apple has filled out a document asking the Federal Communications Commision (FCC) that recognizes the MFi accessories o Made For iPhone as alternatives for complying with the compatibility of hearing aids. This petition comes shortly after the FCC proposes that all wireless phones and devices be compatible with this type of prosthesis.

Apple responded to the FCC's proposal by saying that all MFi products already comply with FCC regulations. In addition, the company that Tim Cook runs also ensures that Made For iPhone hearing aids are already available in many stores, making them a real and current alternative to the requirement of hearing aid compatibility. And not only that, but Apple also ensures that MFi headphones offer a better experience than conventional headphones.

Moreover, by recognizing the platform as an alternative to the compatibility requirement would help the development of new and better devices accessibility.

Apple has worked to make its devices truly accessible and believes that customers with hearing loss deserve a better experience than what conventional hearing aids offer today. IPhones are HAC compliant. But as the commission has recognized, Apple has also invested heavily in improving accessibility by developing a new hearing aid platform that is based on Bluetooth technology.

Apple believes that this Made For iPhone (MFi) hearing aid platform represents a substantial improvement for consumers over devices that are deemed accessible by current HAC regulations. To encourage innovators to develop new and better ways to improve accessibility devices, the commission's policy should recognize solutions such as the MFi hearing aid platform as alternatives to meet the hearing aid compatibility requirement.

The one thing I don't agree with 100% with Apple on, assuming it's true that MFi devices offer a superior experience, is that I don't think a high-priced device can be called affordable. If Apple wants to offer the accessibility that it talks about, and I think it would be necessary because of health issues, it would have to sell the devices of the MFi hearing aid platform for a really accessible price or, at least, not more expensive than conventional ones. But it will?