Can Apple AirPods Produce Sound at 165 Decibels?

The recent claims by a Texas family regarding their son's eardrums rupturing after playing the Amber Alert on Apple AirPods have raised concerns about the potential harm these devices can pose. While a sound level of 165 decibels is significantly high and can lead to eardrum rupture, the actual maximum output of AirPods is much lower, typically around 105-110 decibels. This article delves into the details to provide insights into the risks and precautions related to sound levels and headphone use.

The Risks of High Sound Levels

Decibels are a unit used to measure sound intensity. At 165 decibels, sound is extremely loud and can cause immediate damage, such as eardrum rupture, as verified by medical professionals. However, it is crucial to note that children and teenagers are still developing physically and their ears are more susceptible to damage than adults. Prolonged exposure to sounds over 100 decibels can lead to both temporary and permanent hearing loss. Even a sound at 100 decibels can cause hearing damage, especially if the exposure is prolonged.

Why AirPods May Present a Problem

AirPods are in-ear headphones, meaning they rely on small speakers placed directly in the ear canal to produce sound. This proximity to the eardrum means that high-frequency sounds, which are necessary for clear audio on these devices, can be particularly damaging when played at high volumes. The concern is further compounded by the design of Apple's software, which allows the Amber Alert sound to play directly through the headphones, as opposed to relying on the phone's speaker and vibration functions that are typically used for such alerts.

Understanding Decibels and Hearing Safety

Ambient sounds around us range from near silence at 0 decibels to the pain threshold at 120-130 decibels. At 100 decibels, there is a significant risk of hearing damage, though this risk can vary based on individual factors such as proximity to the source of the sound and duration of exposure. For example, flight attendants, who are exposed to continuous sounds from aircraft engines, may experience some form of hearing damage over time, whereas regular passengers typically do not.

Apple AirPods Pros are designed to output a maximum volume of 105-110 decibels, which is within the generally accepted safe range for personal audio devices. However, the real danger lies in the extended or repeated exposure to such high volume levels. It's important to recognize that the issue is not solely about the decibel level but also the specific type of sounds and frequencies that are used.

Precautions and Recommendations

To minimize the risk of hearing damage when using in-ear headphones like AirPods, it is recommended to follow these guidelines:

Limit Exposure Time: Do not use headphones at high volumes for extended periods. Adjust Volume: Keep the volume below 80% of the maximum to reduce the risk of hearing loss. Use Ear Muffs: For environments with high noise levels, such as concerts, consider wearing ear muffs or noise-canceling headphones. Avoid High-Volume Alerts on Headphones: Use the phone's speaker and vibration features for alerts instead of headphones.

Parents and guardians should be especially vigilant when it comes to children using headphones to ensure they use them safely and avoid extended exposure to high volumes.

Conclusion

While the claim about AirPods producing 165 decibels and causing eardrum rupture is concerning, the reality is that the maximum output of AirPods is significantly lower. However, the potential for hearing damage due to prolonged or repeated exposure to loud sounds emphasizes the need for safe headphone usage. By following the recommended precautions and being aware of the risks, users of all ages can enjoy their audio experiences without compromising their hearing health.