Apple announced at its fall event that the AirPods Pro 2 will include features focused on hearing health, making it the world’s first all-in-one hearing health experience. This upgrade will include active Hearing Protection and a clinically validated Hearing Test feature, as well as the ability to double as an over-the-counter hearing aid. Users will need to take Apple’s Hearing Test, a clinical-grade test based on pure-tone audiometry, to determine if they have mild to moderate hearing loss and qualify for the over-the-counter Hearing Aid capability. The results of the test will provide an audiogram and recommendations securely stored in the Health app.
Once users complete the Hearing Test, they can set up their AirPods Pro 2 as hearing aids using the personalized dynamic adjustments feature. These adjustments will boost sounds around the user in real time, with the Media Assist feature automatically applying the hearing test findings to phone calls, music, movies, and games across all their devices. The hearing aid feature and test are expected to be released in fall 2024 pending FDA approval, with compatibility requiring a compatible iPhone or iPad with iOS 18 or iPadOS 18 and later.
The Apple Hearing Aid feature will be available through a firmware update on the AirPods Pro 2, with access granted in over 100 countries and regions. The hearing aid and test are designed for individuals aged 18 and older with perceived mild to moderate hearing loss. This move by Apple to include hearing aid capabilities in their AirPods Pro 2 could help overcome barriers to obtaining hearing aids, such as cost and stigma, for the estimated 1.5 billion people globally with hearing loss. The Hearing Protection feature will also be included in the AirPods Pro 2, providing passive noise reduction and actively reducing louder noises.
Apple’s focus on hearing health is part of a broader effort to address various health areas, including heart and reproductive health. The company has been conducting its own hearing health study to inform product development and raise awareness about the impact of loud technology on daily life. The addition of Hearing Protection to the AirPods Pro 2 aims to enhance the listening experience while protecting users’ hearing, including a multiband high dynamic range algorithm that maintains natural and clear sound quality at live events like concerts. Overall, Apple’s push into hearing health with the AirPods Pro 2 reflects a commitment to innovation and accessibility in the realm of personal health technology.
