James Delahunty
29 Mar 2006 15:15
Apple Computer Inc. has responded to increased attention around a possible link between high iPod volumes and irreversible hearing loss by including a "volume limit" on new firmware updates for the iPod Nano and video iPods. The update is available as a free download. This is particularly aimed at concerned parents who would prefer to set a volume limit on iPods belonged to their children. The volume limit can be locked with a combination code.
"We want to offer customers an easy to use option to set their own personal volume limit." said Greg Joswiak, Apple's iPod marketing vice president. The US National Institutes of Health said that further studies are needed to determine the effects of in-ear headphones. A US congressman had called for studies into the long term effects on hearing that high volume levels could cause.
Apple is already facing a lawsuit filed by John Kiel Patterson, of Louisiana. It was filed in the US District Court in San Jose, California. His complaint is that his iPod is capable of generating more than 115 decibels. This is considered a dangerous noise level for prolonged use.
Source:
BBC News