This is how your smartphone aims to help you care for your ears

Google will introduce new alerts on Android 14 to warn users of the risks of listening to music at high volumes for extended periods of time. The volume alerts feature is expected to be included in the upcoming Android update, aimed at preventing potential hearing problems caused by prolonged exposure to loud music on headphones.

Prior to this update, a warning would be displayed when the sound level exceeded 85 dB. However, users had the freedom to increase the volume up to 100 dB, with the possibility of receiving another warning after 20 hours. With Android 14, the alerts are expected to be more precise in identifying cases of overexposure to loud volumes during extended listening sessions.

The new alerts will provide targeted warnings such as “headphone volume has exceeded the safe limit for this week,” based on the duration of exposure and the recorded volume level. While the volume will be automatically turned down, users will still have the option to increase it at their own risk.

In addition to volume alerts, Google is also planning to remind users to clean their earbuds. This feature will be exclusively available for Google Pixel Buds owners, with reminders appearing on their smartphones every 120 hours of use, advising them to clean their earbuds. Users can choose to clean them more frequently if desired, using a clean, soft, dry cloth or a slightly damp cotton bud to remove any deposits. Harsh cleaning products should be avoided, and cleaning should not be done while the earbuds are charging.

The latest version of Android, Android 14, is set to be released this autumn. As usual, owners of Pixel smartphones will be the first to receive the update, followed by other manufacturers such as Samsung and Xiaomi announcing their schedules for compatible models and the roll-out of the Android 14 update.

By implementing these features, Google aims to prioritize user safety and well-being by actively addressing potential risks associated with excessive volume levels and promoting proper earbud maintenance.