Apple Hearing Study on the Apple Research app, and the Apple Watch Noise app. Image credit: Apple
A recent study by the Apple Hearing Study confirms that people in the United States are exposed to more noise during special events like the Super Bowl, with elevated levels occurring well before the game starts.
The study, conducted by the University of Michigan’s School of Public Health, analyzed data from 115,049 participants using the Apple Watch Noise app. The research aimed to determine if noise levels increased during major events like the Super Bowl.
During the 2021 to 2024 Super Bowls, noise levels were monitored six hours before and after the game, compared to the same times on the following Sunday. The results showed a detectable rise of 1.5 to 3 decibels on Super Bowl Sunday, starting three hours before the game and lasting for three hours after it ended.
Decibels experienced during the Super Bowl – Image Credit: University of Michigan
The study also compared volume increases in states where the game took place and where the participating teams were from, showing significantly higher levels in game states. This analysis demonstrates the widespread increase in noise levels across the United States during major events like the Super Bowl.
The study concludes with a recommendation for people to monitor their noise exposure using tools like the Noise app on Apple Watch or iPhone, and to protect their hearing by wearing earplugs during noisy events to ensure safety.
Previous reports from the Apple Hearing Study have highlighted findings on tinnitus and noise exposure, encouraging iPhone users to join the study through the Apple Research app on the App Store.