Looks like it’s illegal in 17 states, some with various exemptions for using a single earbud either for anything or for select purposes only.
Depending on the earbud/phone design, even if off they can really reduce your ability to hear the world. Sure playing an open stereo too loud can have a similar effect, but it’s much easier to drown out things when your ear is stuffed or fully covered, without some sort of audio passthrough system.
Looks like it’s illegal in 17 states, some with various exemptions for using a single earbud either for anything or for select purposes only.
Depending on the earbud/phone design, even if off they can really reduce your ability to hear the world. Sure playing an open stereo too loud can have a similar effect, but it’s much easier to drown out things when your ear is stuffed or fully covered, without some sort of audio passthrough system.