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Apple has upgraded the AirPods Pro 2 with a groundbreaking hearing test feature, transforming them into a potential hearing aid solution. This new functionality uses pure-tone audiometry to assess users’ hearing health and detect early signs of hearing loss.
The test results can help users adjust audio settings for better sound clarity or seek medical consultation for further evaluation. Additionally, Apple is introducing a "hearing protection" mode to prevent further damage in noisy environments. This update positions AirPods Pro 2 as more than just earbuds—they’re now a tool for hearing health monitoring.
The hearing test operates through pure-tone audiometry, which utilizes iPhone or iPad devices. Users who activate this feature hear different tones with varying volume and frequency combinations. The test system reviews the acquired results to determine if hearing damage exists. Hearing issues detected by the test enable the AirPods to operate as hearing aids.
Users with the newest AirPods Pro 2 device and an iPhone or iPad running the most recent operating system can perform the hearing test. After establishing the AirPods connection, the user can begin the test through the settings and Health app interface. Test completion requires about five minutes, during which users need to tap the screen after hearing each tone. The test tones are delivered at multiple sound frequencies using varied volume levels while tracking user response to these sounds.
The test generates a report with hearing measurement results according to four defined hearing level categories following the completion of testing. The tested hearing ranges serve as measures to assess hearing loss levels from complete hearing ability to total hearing incapacity. Users can provide their test findings to medical professionals for extra testing and clinical advice. Individuals discovering mild to moderate hearing loss through their AirPods can activate Hearing Assistance features to modify audio qualities.
Hearing loss detection through the hearing test allows users to establish AirPods Pro 2 as a hearing aid solution. The functionality improves acoustic performance, enabling people with hearing difficulties to listen to conversations and environmental sounds more easily. Users who obtain hearing tests from doctors can upload their audiogram data to the hearing aid program to improve performance.
Apple plans to introduce a "hearing protection" mode. This feature functions like earplugs to reduce loud noises at concerts or sports games. With a noise reduction that reaches 35 decibels, the AirPods Pro 2 shields users' ears against additional hearing damage when experiencing loud conditions.
Apple intends to launch this capability in the United States and Canada as its first step before expanding the hearing aid system to additional regional markets. This update has been designed to provide users with an easy-to-use hearing health monitoring tool, enabling them to notice the first hints of hearing loss before significant deterioration occurs.
