I never thought I’d see the words Apple and cheap in the same sentence, well unless we’re talking about actual apples, but here I am writing exactly that. Apple may have just created what could be the world’s cheapest hearing aids, and it all starts with the AirPods Pro 2. At £229, they may not scream bargain, since they are Apple products, but when compared to traditional hearing aids that cost anywhere from £1,000 to £5,000, suddenly, Apple’s earbuds are a steal.
The new hearing aid functionality for AirPods Pro 2 is more than just a gimmick. These earbuds now offer an over-the-counter (OTC) hearing aid mode designed for individuals with mild to moderate hearing loss. The tech lies in their integration with the iPhone. After running a built-in, clinically validated hearing test, the AirPods adjust their settings in real time to amplify the surrounding sound, including conversations, phone calls, and media like music or movies. Unlike conventional hearing aids, you don’t need an audiologist or prescription to get them set up, making them incredibly accessible.
What’s particularly exciting is the quality. Traditional hearing aids are highly specialized devices designed to amplify certain frequencies. Early tests show that while Apple’s AirPods Pro 2 might not fully match the precision of custom-fitted hearing aids, they hold their own in most everyday environments. Especially for people who only need occasional assistance, these earbuds can amplify voices in social settings, boost sounds during phone calls, and even help protect your ears from loud noises.
To put this in perspective, Apple’s entry into the hearing aid market could be a game changer. We’ve seen Sony and Jabra release OTC hearing aids at around $1,000, but Apple is coming in at a quarter of the price which as we all know, isn’t an ‘Apple’ thing. Sure, you’re getting a multi-purpose device with earbuds that work for music and calls too, but that’s precisely the point, you don’t need to buy two devices anymore. Plus, AirPods Pro 2 offer a clinical-grade hearing experience validated by scientific studies, proving Apple’s serious commitment to this new market.
While this tech probably won’t replace high-end prescription hearing aids for severe cases, it’s a remarkable solution for millions of people with mild hearing loss who haven’t yet explored hearing aids because of cost, stigma, or inconvenience. Apple’s goal is clearly to bridge this gap, offering a sleek, consumer-friendly option that folds into the tech ecosystem so many already use daily. Or we can just say it’s another antique to trap people in their ecosystem, debatable, or even true, but it’s something that’s meant to help users so I wouldn’t have any problem being in the Apple ecosystem if something so important like my hearing was in question. Great job Apple! You’ve bought me as well 😹.
Ultimately, Apple has a shot at revolutionising hearing care just as they did with their watches. The AirPods Pro 2, now enhanced with hearing health features, provide a much needed boost to accessibility and affordability in the hearing aid market. Could this be the device that finally normalizes hearing aids for a broader population? We’ll soon find out, but it certainly looks like Apple is on the right track. Oh and how many AirPods are in this article’s thumbnail😏?
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We’ve seen countless ways to tweak and refine your listening experience, that’s not something new, and if you’re someone who values crisp, clear, and customized sound, you’re probably familiar with equalizers. You may even rely on the built-in EQ settings of your headphones or your phone’s built-in EQ, but there’s an app that takes sound personalisation to a whole new level: SoundID.
P.S: This isn’t a sponsored article; I’m just genuinely excited about this app because it has changed the way I listen to music. Let me tell you why SoundID is a game-changer.
What is SoundID?
SoundID is an app developed by Sonarworks, a company known for its professional-grade audio calibration software used in music studios worldwide. SoundID takes that professional expertise and puts it in the palm of your hand, offering a personalized audio experience tailored specifically to your hearing profile and preferences. The app works with a wide range of headphones, enhancing your audio experience regardless of the brand.
How Does SoundID Work?
SoundID uses cutting-edge tech(well so they say) to create a unique sound profile based on your hearing abilities and personal taste. Here’s how it works:
Personalized Sound Profile: When you first set up SoundID, the app guides you through a series of listening tests. It plays various tones and asks you to choose the ones that sound best to you. This process helps the app understand your unique hearing capabilities.
Sound Customization: Once the app has all this information, it creates a personalized sound profile that adapts the audio output to suit your preferences and hearing profile. You can further fine-tune the sound using the app’s intuitive interface, making adjustments until it’s perfect for your ears.
Compatibility: One of the best features of SoundID is its compatibility. You can use it across a wide range of headphones.
Features That Set SoundID Apart
SoundID packs a punch with its impressive array of features that cater to both audiophiles and casual listeners alike. Here are some standout features:
1. Smart Presets
SoundID offers smart presets for various music genres and listening environments. Whether you’re listening to rock, jazz, or hip-hop, or if you’re in a quiet room or a noisy café, the app adjusts the sound to suit the situation perfectly.
2. A/B Testing
A unique feature of SoundID is its A/B testing capability. This allows you to compare the original sound with the personalized version in real time. It’s a fun way to truly hear the difference the app makes and refine your preferences further.
3. Intuitive Interface
The user interface is sleek and straightforward, making it easy for anyone to navigate. Whether you’re a tech-savvy audiophile or a casual listener, you’ll find the app user-friendly and easy to set up.
4. Regular Updates
SoundID is constantly updated with new features and improvements. The developers at Sonarworks listen to user feedback and continuously refine the app to offer the best possible audio experience.
Why SoundID Beats Built-in EQ
Now, let’s talk about why SoundID is a step above the built-in EQ settings. I have JBL headphones so they come with their own EQ within the app. Now don’t get me wrong, JBL makes fantastic headphones with solid EQ options. However, SoundID takes audio customization to another level with its focus on individual hearing profiles and preferences. Here are a few reasons why I prefer SoundID over JBL’s built-in EQ:
Personalization: While JBL EQ settings offer a range of preset sound profiles, they are still generic. SoundID’s approach is entirely personal, creating a sound profile that’s as unique as your fingerprint.
Flexibility: SoundID’s ability to work across different headphones means you’re not tied to a single brand. You can enjoy your personalized sound whether you’re using JBL, Sony, Bose, or any other headphones.
Continuous Improvement: With regular updates and enhancements, SoundID stays ahead of the curve, adapting to new technologies and user feedback, whereas traditional EQ settings might remain static.
Final Thoughts
SoundID is a fantastic app for anyone who values high-quality audio. It offers an unprecedented level of customization and adaptability that enhances your listening experience far beyond what standard EQ settings can provide.
Remember, this is not a sponsored recommendation. I’m genuinely impressed with how much this app has elevated my audio experience, and I believe it can do the same for you.
So, why settle for average sound when you can have audio that’s uniquely yours? Download SoundID now!
So A month ago, I reviewed other music streaming services, looking for a replacement for my beloved Spotify, and boy, was it a promising ride particularly with Apple Music. So I decided to give it a try. The sleek and intuitive user interface, the smart algorithm that quickly picked up on my musical tastes, and the delightful animations – all these features made it seem like Apple Music might be my new go-to music streaming service. But after a month of testing, I found myself sticking with Spotify. Let me tell you why.
Apple Music: First Impressions
When I first started using Apple Music, I was very impressed. Trust me. The user interface was clean and visually appealing, arguably a lot better than Spotify’s static design. The animations added a nice touch of personality, making the experience feel more premium. Plus, the algorithm was quick to grasp my musical preferences, playing songs by my favorite artists and suggesting similar ones after just a few searches and one day in, I already had a fully stocked homepage with my favorite tunes. The “Top 100” playlists were a hit, offering me the latest music from both the UK and Zimbabwe, which was a nice touch.
However, as I continued using the service, a few shortcomings started to surface, particularly when compared to Spotify.
Cross-Device Playback
One of the biggest factors in my decision to stick with Spotify was the seamless integration with multiple devices. This is something I also gave strong emphasis on when I wrote the previous article, it’s a feature that I’m very much used to having and I can’t let it go. Both Apple Music and Spotify restrict playback to one device at a time, which makes sense – after all, you’re only one person, you can’t listen to music on two different devices at the same time. But here’s where Spotify shines: you can control playback across all your logged-in devices. For instance, I could start playing music on my TV and then use my phone or laptop to skip tracks, adjust the volume, or queue up a new playlist. This kind of flexibility isn’t available with Apple Music. Attempting to control playback from another device will simply stop the music, which can be pretty frustrating.
AI DJ and AI-Generated Playlists
Another standout feature of Spotify is its AI DJ and AI-generated playlists. These are real game-changers. The AI DJ curates music based on your listening habits, mood, and even the time of day, creating a highly personalized experience. It’s still in beta so it’s not yet perfect, but it works. Sometimes it plays the same selection over and over again, frustrating? Yes, but as soon as you reset it, it works well. And one more thing is that it’s not yet available on TVs, well at least for the one I have so there’s no AI DJ voice when I’m playing on the TV but it’ll be doing all the hard work in the background. The AI-generated playlists are similarly impressive, constantly updating with new tracks that fit your taste. Although I haven’t used these much since the AI DJ is perfect for me. Apple Music, on the other hand, doesn’t offer anything quite like this. While their algorithm is good at suggesting similar artists and genres, it doesn’t match the level of personalization that Spotify’s AI features provide.
Algorithm Accuracy
In my initial review, I praised Apple Music’s algorithm for quickly learning my preferences. And while it did a decent job initially, over time, I found it being a bit too broad in its selections, if you get what I’m saying. It often played tracks that had no real connection to my initial choices, despite trying to stay within the same genre or artist pool. This was a bit of a letdown, especially when I was in the mood for something specific. In contrast, Spotify’s algorithm seems to have a better handle on my tastes, consistently delivering playlists and recommendations that hit the mark.
Final Thoughts
So, after a month of using Apple Music, I’ve decided to stick with Spotify. The seamless cross-device playback, the impressive AI DJ, and the more accurate algorithm all played a part in my decision. Don’t get me wrong, Apple Music is still a fantastic service with a top-notch user interface and a vast music selection. If they could improve their cross-device functionality and fine-tune their algorithm a bit more, they’d be hard to beat. But for now, Spotify remains my go-to place for music streaming.
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As a longtime Spotify devotee, I’ve always considered it the go-to for all my music streaming needs. But lately, curiosity has gotten the better of me. With a plethora of competitors emerging and promising exciting features, I decided to take a detour from my usual green-and-black interface and dive into the world of other music streaming platforms.
Over the past few days, I’ve been exploring three major contenders: YouTube Music, Apple Music, and Amazon Music, putting them head-to-head with my beloved Spotify. Consider this my musical diary – a tech blog article where I’ll share my experiences, comparing the unique offerings, audio quality, and overall vibes of each service. I’ll be honest about the features I love, the ones that fall flat, and everything in between.
Whether you’re a fellow Spotify loyalist or simply curious about the alternatives, join me as I navigate this sonic landscape. It’s time to find out if Spotify still reigns supreme or if a new contender is ready to claim the throne. Let the music streaming showdown begin!
Spotify Free vs. Spotify Premium
Feature
Spotify Free
Spotify Premium
Music Library
Full access to Spotify’s entire music catalog
Full access to Spotify’s entire music catalog
Audio Quality
Limited to lower quality audio (up to 160kbps)
Higher quality audio (up to 320kbps)
Ads
Yes, frequent audio and visual ads interrupt listening
No ads
Offline Listening
Not available
Available (download songs, albums, and playlists)
On-Demand Playback
Limited on mobile devices (shuffle play only for playlists and albums)
Unlimited skips and on-demand playback on all devices
Device Compatibility
Wide range of devices (smartphones, tablets, computers, smart speakers, etc.)
Wide range of devices (smartphones, tablets, computers, smart speakers, etc.)
Social Features
Connect with friends, see what they’re listening to, collaborative playlists
Connect with friends, see what they’re listening to, collaborative playlists
Personalized Playlists
Available (Discover Weekly, Daily Mix, etc.)
Available (Discover Weekly, Daily Mix, etc.)
Other Features
Spotify Radio, podcasts, lyrics
Spotify Radio, podcasts, lyrics, Spotify Connect
Spotify vs. Amazon Music
Feature
Amazon Music Free
Amazon Music Prime
Amazon Music Unlimited
Music Library
Limited to ad-supported playlists and stations
100 million songs
100 million songs
Audio Quality
Standard definition
Standard definition
HD, Ultra HD, Spatial Audio
Ads
Yes
No
No
Offline Listening
Not available
Available (for downloaded playlists and stations)
Available (download songs, albums, and playlists)
On-Demand Playback
Limited (only on select playlists and stations)
Shuffle play only
Unlimited skips and on-demand playback on all devices
Device Compatibility
Wide range of devices
Wide range of devices
Wide range of devices
Podcasts
Limited selection
Largest catalog of ad-free top podcasts
Largest catalog of ad-free top podcasts
Other Features
None
None
Lyrics, offline playback, unlimited skips
Let’s talk about Amazon Music. Now, I have to admit, this might not be a fair comparison because I only tested the version that comes bundled with Amazon Prime, not the full-fledged Unlimited version. But since Amazon touts this as a major perk of Prime membership, I’m including it in my showdown. Price-wise, it’s a steal if you’re already a Prime subscriber. But if you’re not? The cost becomes, well, let’s just say a bit unreasonable. And from what I experienced, Amazon Music Prime pales in comparison to Spotify. Even Spotify’s free version feels more polished and user-friendly. So, I’m giving Amazon Music Prime a generous 4 out of 10. It earns those points for its seamless Alexa integration and the bliss of ad-free listening. But honestly, the design feels underwhelming and outdated for 2024, and the overall experience simply doesn’t match up to Spotify’s intuitive interface and vast music library.
Spotify vs. YouTube Music
Feature
YouTube Music Free
YouTube Music Premium
Music Library
Full access to YouTube Music’s catalog
Full access to YouTube Music’s catalog
Audio Quality
Lower quality audio
Higher quality audio
Ads
Yes, frequent audio and video ads
No ads
Offline Listening
Not available
Available (download songs and playlists)
On-Demand Playback
Limited (shuffle play only)
Unlimited skips and on-demand playback
Device Compatibility
Wide range of devices
Wide range of devices
Background Play
Not available
Available
Other Features
Create playlists, access personalized mixes
Lyrics, audio-only mode
Okay, let’s dive into YouTube Music. Now, I don’t want to be harsh, but the user interface feels a bit like it was designed by a college student as a side project. It’s cluttered and overwhelming, to the point where even Amazon Music’s interface feels more polished.
But let’s talk about the actual music experience. On the free version, YouTube Music surprisingly doesn’t hold back too much. You get a decent amount of freedom, but the lack of background play is a major drawback.
However, if you’re a premium subscriber who doesn’t mind the clunky UI, YouTube Music truly shines. The name YouTube Music isn’t just for show. It boasts an unmatched selection of music content, automatically pulling up music videos for almost every song. Sure, other platforms offer music videos too, but YouTube Music’s collection is simply unbeatable.
And here’s where it gets interesting: YouTube Music learns from your YouTube history, tailoring music suggestions to your taste. I was impressed by how accurate the algorithm was at recommending songs I actually enjoyed. The personalized playlists are also top-notch, rivaling even Spotify’s curated selections. In fact, my frustration with Spotify’s increasingly repetitive playlists was a major reason for exploring other platforms.
Overall, YouTube Music’s algorithm is comparable to Spotify’s, not necessarily better. But the sheer volume and variety of music content, combined with those spot-on recommendations and personalized playlists, make it a strong contender.
Considering all this, I’d give YouTube Music a solid 8 out of 10. It loses points for the messy interface, but the unparalleled music selection and impressive algorithm make it a fantastic choice for music lovers who prioritize content over aesthetics.
Spotify vs. Apple Music
Feature
Apple Music Free
Apple Music Premium
Music Library
Limited access (cannot play specific songs on demand)
Full access to Apple Music’s entire music catalog
Audio Quality
Not applicable (cannot play songs)
High quality audio (up to 256kbps AAC)
Ads
Not applicable (cannot play songs)
No ads
Offline Listening
Not applicable (cannot play songs)
Available (download songs, albums, and playlists)
On-Demand Playback
Not available
Unlimited skips and on-demand playback on all devices
Device Compatibility
Limited (only on devices with Siri)
Wide range of devices (Apple devices, Android, etc.)
Social Features
Not available
Connect with friends, share playlists, see what they’re listening to
Personalized Playlists
Not available
Available (For You, Favorites Mix, New Music Mix, etc.)
Other Features
Limited to radio stations and Beats 1
Apple Music Radio, lyrics, music videos, Spatial Audio, Lossless Audio
Finally, we’ve saved the best for last: Apple Music. Right from the start, it’s clear this is a premium app. The user interface is sleek and intuitive, on par with Spotify’s or perhaps even better. It’s minimalist, with delightful animations that add a touch of personality – something Spotify, with its static interface, sadly lacks (no offense, Spotify, but it’s true).
In just a few days of use, Apple Music’s algorithm already seemed to grasp my musical preferences. This is impressive, considering it’s a new platform for me. It was playing songs by my favorite artists and suggesting similar ones after just a few searches. I was also impressed by the “Top 100” playlists, which were initially tailored to the UK (where I’m located) but allowed me to switch to Zimbabwean charts with ease. These playlists are refreshed daily, keeping the music fresh and engaging.
Now, let’s address the cross-device playback. It’s important to note that this limitation isn’t unique to Apple Music. Spotify also restricts playback to one device at a time. However, with Spotify, you can seamlessly control playback on one device from another. For example, I can start playing music on my TV and then use my phone or laptop to skip tracks, adjust volume, or even queue up a new playlist. Apple Music doesn’t offer this flexibility. You can only cast from an Android device to a Chromecast, and attempting to control playback from another device will simply stop the music.
In comparison, YouTube Music and Amazon Music offer more flexible cross-device playback. YouTube Music allows seamless control from any device logged into your account, while Amazon Music requires an Alexa device for voice control.
Despite this drawback, Apple Music still earns a 9 out of 10. The UI is top-notch, the algorithm is intelligent, and the music selection is vast. If Apple could match the cross-device functionality of Spotify or YouTube Music, it would easily be a perfect 10.
Conclusion
Feature
Spotify Premium
Apple Music
YouTube Music Premium
Amazon Music Unlimited
Price
£9.99/month (individual)
£10.99/month (individual)
£10.99/month (individual)
£9.99/month (individual) for Prime members, £10.99/month for non-Prime members
Music Library
70+ million songs
100+ million songs
100+ million songs
100+ million songs
Audio Quality
Up to 320kbps
Lossless and Hi-Res Lossless (up to 192kHz/24bit)
Up to 256kbps
HD, Ultra HD, Spatial Audio
Ads
No
No
No
No
Offline Listening
Yes
Yes
Yes
Yes
On-Demand Playback
Yes
Yes
Yes
Yes
Device Compatibility
Wide range of devices
Wide range of devices
Wide range of devices
Wide range of devices
Social Features
Connect with friends, see what they’re listening to, collaborative playlists
Connect with friends, share playlists, see what they’re listening to
No
No
Personalized Playlists
Discover Weekly, Daily Mix, Release Radar
For You, Favorites Mix, New Music Mix, etc.
Create radio from songs, personalized mixes
My Discovery Mix
Other Features
Spotify Radio, podcasts, lyrics, Spotify Connect
Apple Music Radio, lyrics, music videos, Spatial Audio
Lyrics, audio-only mode
Lyrics, offline playback, unlimited skips
After my musical odyssey through Spotify, Amazon Music, YouTube Music, and Apple Music, it’s time for my final verdict.
While each platform has its unique strengths and weaknesses, Apple Music surprisingly emerged as a strong contender for my personal favorite. Despite its cross-device playback limitations and the absence of an AI DJ (which Spotify recently introduced), Apple Music’s sleek interface, intuitive design, and impressive algorithm make it a worthy rival to Spotify.
Ultimately, the choice of music streaming service boils down to individual preferences and budget. If you prioritize an extensive music catalog and seamless cross-device playback, YouTube Music might be your jam. If you’re already deeply invested in the Amazon ecosystem, Amazon Music Prime could be a convenient option. But for those seeking a premium, visually appealing experience with top-notch recommendations, Apple Music might just steal your heart.
As for me? I think I might just stick with Apple Music for now, even with its flaws. It’s a testament to how far Apple has come in the music streaming space, offering a compelling alternative to my longtime favorite, Spotify. But hey, that’s just my two cents. The beauty of the music streaming world is that there’s something for everyone. So, explore, experiment, and find the perfect soundtrack for your life.
