Apple is set to launch new hearing health features for its AirPods Pro 2, allowing the wireless earbuds to function as a hearing aid for users with mild to moderate hearing loss. This new capability, available through a free software update next week, includes a clinically validated hearing test and automatic adjustments for personalized hearing enhancement. Additionally, the AirPods Pro 2 will feature hearing protection, such as loud sound reduction, which will be enabled by default.
With more than 1.5 billion people worldwide experiencing hearing loss, this development could significantly impact the market for assistive hearing technology. At $249, the AirPods Pro 2 provide an affordable alternative to traditional over-the-counter hearing aids, which often cost thousands of dollars.
Setting up the new hearing health features is a quick and straightforward process. Users can access the hearing test through the Health app or the AirPods’ settings. The test measures hearing at different tones and volumes in both ears and provides instant results. Once completed, users can share their results with a doctor if necessary. For those with hearing loss, the AirPods Pro 2 can act as personalized hearing aids, amplifying specific sounds and adjusting to individual hearing profiles in real time.
During testing, users noted that the hearing test required a quiet environment, and some tones were so subtle that background noise could interfere with the results. However, the test was easy to perform, and the AirPods automatically paused if there was too much noise.
The hearing aid feature, approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA), transforms the AirPods into a real-time personalized hearing aid, enhancing specific sounds, such as speech or environmental noises. Users can also activate “Media Assist,” which improves the clarity of phone calls, music, and videos based on their hearing test results. While the effect was subtle for media playback, it noticeably amplified voices during FaceTime calls.
For individuals with mild to moderate hearing loss, the hearing aid feature can make everyday conversations and activities more manageable. However, even those without significant hearing impairment found it useful in noisy environments. The hearing protection features also help to reduce overwhelming loud sounds, providing a more balanced auditory experience.
Though the AirPods Pro 2 are not a substitute for traditional hearing aids for severe hearing loss, they offer a discreet and practical option for users who may be reluctant to use more visible devices. The AirPods’ familiar design makes them less conspicuous, and their seamless integration with other Apple devices ensures a smooth user experience.
Overall, Apple’s foray into hearing health with the AirPods Pro 2 is a promising step toward more accessible and affordable hearing aid technology. Whether users need the full hearing aid functionality or just the media assist features, the AirPods Pro 2 offer a versatile solution for hearing enhancement.