Noise on Super Bowl Sunday (February 9 this year) increases throughout the United States, almost everywhere, according to new Apple Hearing Study research findings this week from Apple and the University of Michigan.
The findings highlight the importance of being mindful about noise exposure during major sporting events, even when watching from home. Even those not at the big game get exposed to higher levels of noise, often for several hours, and all the more so at boisterous public viewings in bars or at parties. And that could factor into hearing loss for some, researchers indicated.
Apple Hearing Study: The whole country gets louder on Super Bowl Sunday
Drawing from more than 115,000 Apple Watch users through the Noise app, researchers discovered that Americans experience substantially elevated noise levels during the big game, even when watching from home. The research, released ahead of Super Bowl LIX in New Orleans — which anyone can stream for free on any Apple device — revealed that noise exposure increases by 1.5 to 3 decibels compared to typical Sundays, with elevated levels lasting approximately nine hours on game day.
While this increase seems modest and even to be expected, experts warn that the logarithmic nature of the decibel scale means a 3-decibel rise actually represents a doubling of sound energy — a significant jump that could impact hearing health.
Turn to Apple devices on game day
The study tracked noise patterns during Super Bowls from 2021 to 2024, noting that the increased noise exposure typically begins three hours before kickoff and continues for about three hours after the final whistle. Particularly noteworthy: States hosting the Super Bowl or with participating teams showed markedly higher noise levels, likely due to larger gathering sizes and more energetic celebrations.
For Apple users concerned about their hearing health, the company offers several protective features across its device ecosystem. The Apple Watch’s Noise app can actively monitor environmental sound levels and alert users when they reach potentially harmful thresholds.
Additionally, AirPods Pro 2 users can take advantage of the Hearing Protection features, which can help reduce sound exposure in loud environments.
For those at big events: Noise-canceling headphones or earplugs
The research team recommends that Super Bowl viewers, whether at home or at viewing parties, utilize these tools to monitor their noise exposure. For those planning to attend large viewing events, considering protective measures such as noise-canceling headphones or earplugs could help safeguard hearing health while still enjoying the excitement of the game.
As Super Bowl LIX approaches, this timely research reminds us that even everyday celebrations can impact our hearing health. And Apple’s technology can play a crucial role in helping users make informed decisions about their noise exposure.
