Apple's update to transform AirPods Pro 2 into hearing aids
Apple is set to introduce a series of enhancements focused on hearing health for its AirPods Pro 2. The key update includes a "clinical grade" hearing aid feature, designed specifically for individuals with mild to moderate hearing impairment. This innovative functionality is currently pending approval from the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA), but Apple anticipates authorization from the FDA and other regulatory bodies in the near future.
How will the hearing aid feature work?
The new hearing aid feature of the AirPods Pro 2 is designed to enhance specific sounds in real time, such as speech and environmental noises. The update also includes a clinically validated hearing test that can identify potential hearing loss. This test requires both an AirPods Pro 2 and a compatible iOS 18 iPhone or iPad, and can be completed in less than five minutes.
Interactive hearing test and custom profile creation
The interactive hearing test on the AirPods Pro 2 prompts users to listen to sounds at various frequencies, and follow on-screen instructions on their iPhone. The results, including an audiogram and a number indicating hearing loss for each ear, can be accessed via the iPhone Health app. Based on these results, a personalized hearing profile is created that automatically adjusts audio settings when users listen to music or make calls.
Apple introduces passive hearing protection mode
In addition to the hearing aid feature, Apple is also introducing a passive hearing protection mode with the AirPods Pro 2. This feature is designed to automatically lower noise levels in loud environments such as concerts. The company notes that one in three people are frequently exposed to noisy environments that could potentially harm their hearing, highlighting the importance of this new functionality.
AirPods Pro 2's hearing aid feature: Availability
The new hearing aid and hearing test features for the AirPods Pro 2 are set to be released as a free software update this fall in over 100 countries, including the US, Japan, and Germany. The earbuds will automatically adapt themselves in hearing aid mode based on user's test results. This makes them suitable as over-the-counter (OTC) hearing aids for people with mild to moderate hearing loss.
