Apple recently announced significant new features for the AirPods Pro 2 that focus on hearing health. These features include clinical-grade hearing aid functionality, a hearing test, and improved hearing protection. These updates will be available with the release of iOS 18.1, marking a pivotal moment for raising awareness about hearing health.
With these new features, Apple is essentially turning their popular earbuds into over-the-counter hearing aids. This shift will require a change in mindset, as wearing earbuds might become more common in various situations. The stigma attached to hearing aids may also decrease with the integration of these features.
The AirPods Pro 2 will now provide hearing protection in all modes, including noise cancellation, transparency, and adaptive audio. This feature aims to safeguard users’ hearing across different environments, such as concerts. However, the earbuds have limitations when it comes to extremely loud noises, so users should be aware of their surroundings.
Additionally, Apple has introduced a hearing test that users can take on their iPhones. This test is designed to provide insights into the user’s hearing abilities and can help detect any potential hearing loss. The results are stored in the Health app, allowing users to track changes over time.
For individuals aged 18 and above with mild to moderate hearing loss, the AirPods Pro 2 can now function as clinical-grade hearing aids. Users can adjust settings such as amplification, tone, and balance to customize their hearing experience. The hearing aid feature can also optimize the sound of music, calls, and videos based on the user’s hearing test results.
While the AirPods Pro 2 offer a more affordable option compared to traditional hearing aids, individuals with severe hearing loss may require specialized devices. It’s important to note that the battery life of the AirPods Pro 2 may be a consideration for users utilizing the hearing aid feature extensively.
Overall, Apple’s focus on enhancing hearing health through their AirPods Pro 2 is a significant step forward in integrating technology with healthcare. As other tech companies may follow suit, the accessibility of hearing aid functionality could improve, benefiting a broader range of individuals. This development signifies a positive shift towards leveraging technology to enhance the quality of life for users.