Apple announced earlier today that the AirPods Pro 2 will soon offer a groundbreaking feature: the ability to function as a clinical-grade hearing aid. With a software update expected this fall, the popular wireless earbuds will be transformed into personalised hearing devices. This marks a significant advancement in Apple's long-standing focus on hearing health, which began with innovations like the Noise app on the Apple Watch and the iPhone's headphone audio level monitoring.
Transforming AirPods into hearing aids
The upcoming update will introduce a new feature called the Hearing Test, allowing users with mild to moderate hearing loss to turn their AirPods Pro 2 into over-the-counter hearing aids. These hearing aids will be customisable with an audiogram created by a hearing health professional. Apple says the Hearing Test and hearing aid functionalities are scientifically validated, not just experimental features. Both are based on extensive studies and backed by scientific evidence, offering a reliable solution for hearing assistance.
This personalised hearing aid capability will adjust dynamically to the sounds around you, boosting speech and environmental sounds in real-time. Whether you're in a conversation or listening to your surroundings, the update will make it easier for you to stay engaged with those around you. Moreover, this personalised hearing profile will extend beyond regular hearing aids, including improved audio experiences for music, movies, and phone calls across Apple devices.
Making hearing aids more accessible
This new feature is expected to have a profound impact on people with hearing impairments. By integrating hearing aids into a widely used device like the AirPods, Apple is making hearing assistance more affordable and discreet. Instead of using bulky or traditional hearing aids, users can now wear AirPods, which are already commonplace and accepted as part of modern tech culture. This update could help reduce any stigma associated with wearing hearing aids in public.
However, Apple's hearing health focus isn't limited to those diagnosed with hearing loss. The company's research indicates that many people are unknowingly at risk of damaging their hearing. In a study conducted by Apple, it was revealed that one in three people is regularly exposed to high levels of noise that can negatively impact hearing. To address this, Apple is adding more health-related features to the AirPods Pro 2, such as a default hearing protection setting designed to minimise background noise exposure.
Enhanced hearing for all
The update will benefit individuals with hearing loss and those without any diagnosed impairment. The Hearing Test can offer personalised audio adjustments across different frequencies, enhancing the listening experience. Additionally, a new feature called Media Assist will improve the clarity of specific sounds during phone calls or music playback, making it easier for users to hear speech or distinguish instruments.
Apple has confirmed that this update, including the hearing aid and hearing test features, will soon receive approval from the global health authority. Later this fall, these new functionalities will roll out in over 100 countries, including the United States, Germany, and Japan.
