Why do humans and other primates have rounded ears, while most other mammals have pointed ears?

Question

I know that rats and mice have rounded ears too, but they are our next closest relative to apes and monkeys.

In: 3

Answer 1

Rounded ears help to focus sound waves inward, increasing fidelity at the cost of overall coverage.

Pointed ears help gather more sound, at the cost of fidelity.

Basically, humans and other primates evolved these ears because of the beginnings of language. It more more advantageous to hear exactly what sound your friend made, to be warned of a threat, than to have a slightly better idea where the threat may be if you heard yourself.