Kickstart: iHearing Aid

Apple Inc. is about to convert its plastic and silicone AirPods into an over-the-counter medical device.

As part of its Sept. 9 introduction of updates to its phones, watches and computers, the technology giant said its AirPods Pro 2 model will be able to perform hearing tests and also tap into software that can turn AirPods into hearing aids for users with mild to moderate hearing loss. They can also use that software to reduce sound levels, providing hearing protection.

"Using the personalized hearing profile from the hearing test, this new feature seamlessly transforms AirPods Pro into a clinical-grade hearing aid," Apple said in a news release.

President Joe Biden's administration approved over-the-counter hearing aid sales in late 2022, a move intended to cut costs and add competition to the industry. Clearing the way for more access to hearing aids also prompted glasses maker EssilorLuxottica to move into the market. Earlier this year it introduced glasses with an integrated hearing aid.

The arrival of an AirPods-based hearing aid could be a big benefit to anyone hesitant about their self-image if they wear a traditional medical assistance device. It will also, hopefully, prompt people to think twice before commenting about "millennials" who wear earbuds all the time.

Slow sales numbers for electric vehicles have prompted an unexpected flexibility in automaker-supplier contracts — at least for large parts makers.

Typically, automakers' contracts go out for bids from suppliers with an estimate of sales. That helps suppliers make sure they have the right amount of equipment and workers on hand to provide parts as needed, although it's not a guarantee of production level.

But EVs aren't selling at high volumes in the U.S., leaving suppliers with equipment that is being underutilized.

Our sister paper Crain's Detroit Business writes that major companies such as Lear Corp. and Magna International Inc. have been able to open "different dialogues and communication lines" when it comes to negotiating for parts and pricing.

Global companies, however, have more power in negotiations because their parts are essential. The bigger the supplier, the more leverage it has, said Michael Brady, executive partner of Warner Norcross + Judd LLP. Makers of items such as latches, under-the-hood bottles or interior trim subcomponents typically lack that status. So while the auto industry may be opening up more opportunities for negotiations — which is good news — there's no guarantee those practices will extend further down the supply chain.

The Middle East is working to develop infrastructure for recycling collection and a mindset for consumers that values sustainability, but it will take time.

Our sister paper Sustainable Plastics is in Dubai this week for the second Plastics Recycling Show Middle East and Africa, a three-day event with a conference and 100 exhibitors.

In the United Arab Emirates, Veolia has been operating an app-based recycling collection program in Dubai and Abu Dhabi since 2020.

"The underlying issue everywhere is the economics of recycling. We need to have some sort of economic device to facilitate recycling," Justin Wood, an executive with the Alliance to End Plastic Waste, said during the show.