Apple is making waves once again with the introduction of new hearing health features for its popular AirPods Pro, set to arrive this fall with the iOS 18 update. Offering more than just music playback, these innovative features are aimed at improving users' awareness of their hearing health and providing much-needed assistance.
For those who have been using the second-generation AirPods Pro, you might already be familiar with the existing hearing features. But come this fall, thanks to iOS 18, the company is rolling out even more functionality—significantly enhancing the user experience with a trio of new tools: Hearing Test, Hearing Aid, and Hearing Protection. This new three-prong approach comprises awareness, assistance, and prevention, filling the gaps for those mindful of their hearing capabilities.
So, how does it actually work? Remember the hearing tests you might have taken as kids, where you sat in a booth and raised your hand each time you heard a sound? Apple is now offering a similar experience, but instead of bulky equipment and trips to the doctor, you can do this right from the comfort of your own home using your iPhone and AirPods Pro.
The process is really quite simple. First, users navigate to the AirPods Pro settings on their iPhones within the Hearing Health section. The smart technology double-checks to make sure you have a snug fit for your earbuds, ensuring effective noise isolation. Once everything is set, the Hearing Test begins, and the Active Noise Cancellation (ANC) feature kicks in to provide the calm, quiet environment needed for accurate results.
During the test, users will tap on their screens whenever they hear tones playing through their earbuds. Apple has reportedly analyzed over 150,000 real audiograms and performed millions of simulations to create this streamlined yet effective testing method. According to the company, the test is not only quick, but accurate—a reassuring factor for those concerned about their hearing.
Once the test wraps up, results pop up on the screen almost immediately, detailing any hearing loss detected in each ear. If you only have slight hearing loss, the system suggests adjustments to the Media Assist settings, enhancing audio during calls and entertainment. But if it identifies mild to moderate hearing loss, it will recommend activating the Hearing Aid feature for improved everyday listening experiences.
Testing the system live during the iPhone 16 event, one Engadget reporter found it’s as straightforward as Apple has promised. The entire procedure takes around five minutes, making it easy to fit even on the busiest of days.
What’s great about these new features is how they keep track of your auditory health. With results stored directly within the Health app on your iPhone, users can monitor their hearing over time and revisit the test whenever they feel the need—with enlightening articles and downloadable results just one tap away.
Delving more deeply, the Hearing Aid function is particularly noteworthy. This software aims to assist those with mild to moderate hearing loss by enhancing specific sound frequencies. Unlike traditional hearing aids, this tool allows users to customize amplification, balance, and tone, maximizing everyday interactions, whether it’s listening to conversations or enjoying music and calls.
While these updates are exciting, it’s important to point out when the Hearing Test sees severe hearing loss, the software will rightly urge users to consult with an audiologist for professional help. It’s all about blending modern technology with genuine health benefit potential.
Looking forward, the rollout of Hearing Test, Hearing Aid, and Hearing Protection all hinges on FDA approval, which Apple hopes to secure before the new features go live alongside iOS 18 later this fall.
Overall, Apple continues to innovate, bringing technologies once reserved for doctors’ offices directly to consumers, increasing accessibility, and making hearing assessments as easy as putting on a pair of AirPods. With the new air of health consciousness surrounding hearing aids, this shift could signify substantial changes for those grappling with hearing challenges—or just curious about their hearing capability.
With this thoughtful evolution of the AirPods Pro, Apple may well be on the brink of redefining the way we view and manage our hearing health—offering solutions right at our fingertips, quite literally. Now, who said earbuds are just for listening?
