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Diversity and Inclusion (DEIA)

Sarah Herrlinger Talks AirPods Pro Hearing Aid

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Sarah Herrlinger Talks AirPods Pro Hearing Aid

Apple’s Latest Holiday Ad Focuses on AirPods Pro and the New Hearing Aid Feature

The Power of Hearing Aid Technology

Before leaving for my family get-together on Thanksgiving, I posted an item about Apple’s annual holiday ad. Called Heartstrings, the new spot centers on a family celebrating Christmas morning and the father using the hearing aid feature on AirPods Pro to better hear his daughter serenade him with her acoustic guitar. The poignancy meter is off the charts as it shows Apple at its absolute best. Of course, the company surely hopes people are pushed to buy AirPods Pro, but the more salient point is that the earbuds have far greater resonance than merely being passive listening devices for music and podcasts.

A New Era of Hearing Aids

Thanks to the FDA and the commensurate iOS 18.1 software update released in late October, AirPods Pro have the ability to act as bonafide over-the-counter hearing aids for people who are dealing with mild-to-moderate hearing loss.

Apple’s Commitment to Accessibility

In a recent interview, Apple’s senior director of global accessibility policy and initiatives, Sarah Herrlinger, explained that the hearing aid feature in AirPods Pro is yet one more manifestation of the company’s "longstanding commitment" to the disability community vis-a-vis accessibility. She said there are 1.5 billion people worldwide coping with hearing loss, the severity of which is mostly on the mild-to-moderate side. Herrlinger added that Apple’s hearing study revealed 75% of people coping with hearing loss "do not get the assistive support they need."

The Hearing Aid Feature in Action

The hearing aid feature in AirPods Pro is designed to work "seamlessly" with the earbuds, which are "the best-selling headphones in the world" – the ones people reach for most often to listen to their favorite media. Apple figured why not combine their ubiquity with their "powerful foundation of the acoustic technology," along with the company’s institutional ethos on prioritizing accessibility and ever-burgeoning ambitions in healthcare, to "do something about the huge issue" around untreated hearing loss.

Designing for Accessibility

Herrlinger explained that Apple incorporates accessibility into "everything we do" because disability is part and parcel of the human experience. The company truly wants everyone to be able to use its products, she told me, adding it’s part of Apple’s mission to make technology that’s customizable so as to reflect the diverse needs of people.

The Future of Hearing Aid Technology

When asked about feedback, Herrlinger told me Apple "loves" hearing from its customers. The hearing aid function in AirPods Pro has been "no exception" in the weeks since iOS 18.1 dropped, the company has heard from users who have shared stories about how the functionality has "had an impact for a friend, family member, or in their own life."

Conclusion

Apple’s commitment to accessibility is evident in its latest holiday ad, which highlights the new hearing aid feature in AirPods Pro. The company’s dedication to making its products accessible to everyone is a testament to its mission to empower people to "live out their dreams."

FAQs

  • What is the hearing aid feature in AirPods Pro?
    The hearing aid feature in AirPods Pro is a new function that allows users to use their AirPods as hearing aids.
  • How does it work?
    The hearing aid feature in AirPods Pro uses advanced audio technology to help improve hearing by amplifying sound and reducing background noise.
  • Is it available in all countries?
    The hearing aid feature in AirPods Pro is available in over 100 countries and regions around the world.
  • How does Apple approach design for accessibility?
    Apple incorporates accessibility into "everything we do" because disability is part and parcel of the human experience. The company truly wants everyone to be able to use its products, and it’s part of Apple’s mission to make technology that’s customizable so as to reflect the diverse needs of people.

Diversity and Inclusion (DEIA)

Brands Beware

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Brands Beware

Introduction to Hispanic Homeownership in America

A recent report released by the National Association of Hispanic Real Estate Professionals sheds light on the state of Hispanic homeownership in America in 2024. Drawing from both publicly available data and insights from real estate practitioners within the NAHREP network, the report aims to tell the evolving story of Hispanic homeownership. It highlights key trends in homeownership growth, including barriers, opportunities, and cultural nuances influencing Hispanic consumers. These insights help shape NAHREP’s policy priorities for legislative and administrative actions, while guiding industry efforts to reduce barriers and expand homeownership opportunities.

Current State of Hispanic Homeownership

Despite rising home prices and high interest rates, the number of Hispanic homeowners in the U.S. reached a record 9,781,000 in 2024—representing 49% of all Hispanic households. Although this figure is slightly below the 49.5% reported in 2023, it reflects a net gain of 238,000 new Hispanic homeowners over the past year. These 238,000 new homeowners accounted for 35% of the nation’s total net growth in homeownership, a disproportionately high share compared to the overall Hispanic population, which makes up approximately 15% of U.S. households. This means Hispanics are punching above their weight in driving homeownership growth.

The Role of Non-White Households

Despite accounting for only 36% of total households, non-white households represented 82% of all new household formations in the United States. This indicates the increasing importance of multicultural segments in shaping the future housing market. One particularly striking data point is that Hispanics formed 676,000 households in 2024, accounting for 43% of all new household formations in the country. However, many of these households opted to rent instead, which contributed to the slight dip in the Hispanic homeownership rate from 49.5% to 49%.

Growth in Hispanic Homeownership

The growth in Hispanic homeownership over the past decade has been remarkable. In 2014, only 6,864,000 Hispanic households owned a home. By 2024, that number had increased by nearly 3 million—a 42% increase in just ten years. According to the report, this sustained growth is driven by several factors: greater mobility to relocate to more affordable regions, innovative financing solutions, and a strong cultural commitment to achieving the American Dream.

Demographic Characteristics

With a median age of 31, Hispanics are young compared to the general population, and 43% of Hispanic homebuyers in 2024 were under 45 years old. By comparison, only 38% of non-Hispanic homebuyers are under the age of 45. Nearly half of Hispanic heads of households belong to the Millennial or Gen Z generations.

Geographic Trends

Geographically, Texas continues its long-standing trend as the state with the largest increase in Hispanic homeowners. Interestingly, less traditional markets like St. Louis, Pittsburgh, and Wichita have also emerged as popular destinations due to more affordable housing options and lower costs of living.

Economic Influence and Ripple Effect

The report emphasizes that the economic influence of the U.S. Hispanic population is growing faster than its size. As the country faces economic uncertainty and potential recession, the Hispanic consumer segment stands out as a critical driver of sustainable business growth. Moreover, the ripple effect of increasing Hispanic homeownership extends beyond the real estate sector. It fuels growth across industries such as financial services (mortgages and insurance), construction and building materials, home improvement, appliances, furniture and décor, legal and professional services, utilities, moving and storage, technology, and smart home devices.

Call to Action

Gary Acosta, co-founder and CEO of NAHREP, states, “Despite record high prices, tight inventory, and rising interest rates, the resilience and determination of Hispanics have led to record levels in homeownership and household formation. But this progress is not guaranteed. We must address the affordability crisis and remove systemic barriers to ensure that every Latino family has a fair shot at achieving the American Dream.” The findings from the 2024 NAHREP report present a clear and urgent call to action for advertisers: the U.S. Hispanic segment is not just growing—it is driving the future of homeownership and household formation in America.

Conclusion

With nearly 10 million Hispanic homeowners and a youthful, upwardly mobile population forming households at record rates, this demographic represents one of the most powerful and untapped engines of economic growth. Brands that recognize this moment and strategically invest in culturally relevant, data-informed marketing will be best positioned to earn the trust and loyalty of this influential audience. The time to act is now. As the Hispanic consumer base continues to expand in size, wealth, and influence, those who delay will fall behind. This is more than a market trend—it’s a defining opportunity for brands to align with the values, aspirations, and economic power of the next generation of American consumers.

FAQs

  • Q: What was the number of Hispanic homeowners in the U.S. in 2024?
    A: The number of Hispanic homeowners in the U.S. reached a record 9,781,000 in 2024.
  • Q: What percentage of all new household formations in the country did Hispanics account for in 2024?
    A: Hispanics accounted for 43% of all new household formations in the country in 2024.
  • Q: What is driving the sustained growth in Hispanic homeownership?
    A: The sustained growth is driven by several factors including greater mobility to relocate to more affordable regions, innovative financing solutions, and a strong cultural commitment to achieving the American Dream.
  • Q: What is the median age of Hispanics compared to the general population?
    A: With a median age of 31, Hispanics are young compared to the general population.
  • Q: Why is the Hispanic consumer segment important for economic growth?
    A: The Hispanic consumer segment is critical for sustainable business growth as its economic influence is growing faster than its size, making it a driver of economic growth amidst economic uncertainty.
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Diversity and Inclusion (DEIA)

Florida Attorney General Restricts Engagement with Law Firms Embracing DEI Policies

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Florida Attorney General Restricts Engagement with Law Firms Embracing DEI Policies

In a significant policy shift, Florida Attorney General James Uthmeier has announced that his office will no longer engage with private law firms that implement Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) initiatives. This decision underscores a growing debate over the role of DEI practices within professional services and their alignment with legal and ethical standards.

Policy Overview

Attorney General Uthmeier expressed deep concern over what he perceives as discriminatory practices associated with DEI programs in many law firms. In a recent policy memorandum, he emphasized the importance of adhering to the rule of law and ensuring equal justice, stating that DEI and Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) practices undermine these foundational principles.

Effective immediately, the Attorney General’s Office will cease collaborations with law firms that engage in what it deems as illegal and inappropriate discrimination and bias. Uthmeier highlighted that racial discrimination, irrespective of its form, is both wrong and unlawful, asserting that Florida’s taxpayer resources should not support firms that engage in such practices.

Implications for Law Firms

The policy specifically targets law firms involved in various DEI programs, including:

  • Mansfield Certification, which mandates diversity in leadership roles.

  • Minority diversity scorecards.

  • Racial diversity targets in hiring, promotions, and contracting.

Firms with a history of such practices will be prohibited from collaborating with the state unless they can demonstrate significant changes. The Attorney General’s Office will conduct a comprehensive review of existing engagements to assess compliance with this new policy.

Broader Context

This move aligns with broader efforts at both state and federal levels to scrutinize and, in some cases, dismantle DEI initiatives within public institutions and government contracts. Critics of DEI programs argue that they may inadvertently promote discriminatory practices by prioritizing certain groups over others, potentially leading to reverse discrimination. Supporters, however, contend that DEI initiatives are essential for fostering inclusive environments and addressing historical inequities.

The policy change is expected to have significant ramifications for law firms operating in Florida, prompting them to reevaluate their internal policies and practices to ensure alignment with the state’s directives.

Conclusion

Florida’s recent policy shift reflects an ongoing national conversation about the balance between promoting diversity and adhering to principles of equal treatment under the law. As this debate continues, organizations and legal professionals will need to navigate these complex issues carefully, ensuring that their practices comply with evolving legal standards and societal expectations.

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Diversity and Inclusion (DEIA)

Is Neurodiversity Under Attack? Yes. Here’s Why

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Is Neurodiversity Under Attack? Yes. Here’s Why

Widespread Resistance To DEI

There can’t be diversity without neurodiversity. Diversity of thought can make or break a team at work. We need diversity of thought in order to thrive as professionals and as a society. Companies like Target, Amazon, and Google are rolling back DEI programs, which means the importance of neurodiversity is no longer being spoken about at many prominent companies.

Workplace Discrimination

Revealing that you are neurodivergent can be a risk when it comes to the workplace. Some colleagues may respond with discrimination or bullying. The fear of dealing with workplace discrimination keeps many neurodivergent people from revealing their diagnoses, also known as masking. Remember that neurodiversity was a hot topic just a few years ago, but with recent changes in the country’s leadership, who knows what will happen to discussions surrounding neurodiversity in the workplace.

Stigma Results In Masking

I believe that stigma plays a major role in why neurodiversity is under attack. So many disorders are made light of and misunderstood. I urge readers to consider whether they expect colleagues to mask their neurodivergence. Do you allow space for conversations about neurodiversity at work? Do you encourage diversity of thought or simply remain quiet when it comes time to defend DEI? These are questions working professionals should be asking themselves, especially those who work at companies that have scaled back on or ended DEI initiatives.

Conclusion

Neurodivergent people deserve to be seen and heard in the workplace. But with recent pushback against DEI, it feels as though neurodiversity has been put to the wayside. I urge readers to continue advocating for neurodiversity and to refuse to be silenced. Keep speaking out, keep posting, and keep joining communities of neurodivergent people. Neurodiversity is not going away, and it’s time for it to be celebrated everywhere.

FAQs

Q: What can I do to support neurodivergent individuals in the workplace?
A: Encourage open conversations about neurodiversity, provide a safe and inclusive environment, and advocate for DEI initiatives.

Q: Why is neurodiversity important in the workplace?
A: Neurodiversity brings diversity of thought, which is essential for innovation and success. It also helps to create a more inclusive and accepting work environment.

Q: How can I, as an individual, make a difference in promoting neurodiversity?
A: By speaking out, sharing your own experiences, and advocating for DEI initiatives, you can make a significant impact.

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