AirPods Pro 2 are more than just a perfect way to rock out with your iPhone or other Apple devices. In fall 2024, Apple plans to bring a suite of new features to help protect your hearing with the AirPods Pro 2 and even use them as hearing aids.
1 Hearing Protection
The first hearing-oriented feature for AirPods Pro 2 that Apple announced at the “It’s Glowtime” iPhone event is Hearing Protection. Thanks to the H2 chip, the AirPods Pro 2 will actively reduce louder, intermittent noise at 48,000 times per second.
The feature will be enabled by default across all the AirPods Pro listening modes. A special algorithm will also allow sounds at live events to remain natural and vibrant.
2 Hearing Test
To better understand if you have any hearing loss, Apple is also introducing a clinical-grade hearing test using the AirPods Pro 2 and any compatible iPhone or iPad.
The entire hearing test takes around five minutes and uses pure-tone audiometry. You’ll tap the iPhone or iPad screen when you hear a tone.
After the test, you’ll see a summary of results, including the hearing loss in each ear, classification, and recommendations. All this information will be stored securely in the Health app, which you can share with a doctor.
3 Hearing Aids
By far, the most exciting hearing feature is that you’ll be able to use AirPods Pro 2 as hearing aids for mild or moderate hearing loss. A personalized hearing profile will be used from the hearing test to help with the setup.
There are also personalized dynamic adjustments to boost the sounds in real time. The hearing profile is also used for music, movies, games, and phone calls across different Apple devices without needing to adjust settings.
You can optionally set up the feature with an audiogram from a hearing health professional.
Even if you have little to no hearing loss in the test, the hearing profile can provide specific adjustments at individual frequencies.
This AirPods Pro 2’s Hearing Aid feature is poised to make a strong dent in the sales of OTC hearing aids that provide similar help.
These new features are exciting for anyone who can’t get enough of their AirPods Pro 2. They have always been one of my favorite Apple gadgets, and the hearing features—especially the software-based Hearing Aid functionality—will make these earbuds even better.
