Apple has launched a major update to AirPods Pro 2 ahead of iOS 18.1 that turns the wireless earphones into a clinical-grade, over-the-counter hearing aid set. Here’s what you need to know for how to use the AirPods hearing aid and hearing test.
Apple announced the AirPods Pro 2 hearing aid feature at its September iPhone event. Impressively, the new capabilities are available now and take hearing protection further, include a hearing test for user awareness, and clinical-grade hearing assistance.
That’s a lot of value delivered through a software update for ~$200 headphones (for existing and new users). Especially when traditional hearing aids often run between $1,000-$3,500.
How to use AirPods hearing aid
Requirements
- AirPods Pro 2 will be the only AirPods to support the clinical-grade hearing aid feature
- You’ll also need the AirPods Pro 2 7B19 firmware update installed (previous version is 7A305)
- This happens automatically and launched on 10/24 – but plug in your AirPods Pro 2 and have them near your iPhone to try and force the update
- Check your version by heading to Settings > your AirPods Pro 2 (make sure they’re connected to your phone) > swipe to the bottom
- At launch, only available in the US and Canada for those 18 years old and older
- Apple says the hearing aid assistance will be for “users with perceived mild to moderate hearing loss.” And that “If you have little to no hearing loss or severe hearing loss,” AirPods hearing aid may “not be right for you.”
Set up
- When you’ve got the new AirPods Pro 2 firmware installed, you’ll be able to use the earphones to complete a clinically validated hearing test
- On iPhone head to Settings > AirPods Pro 2 > Hearing Health > Take a Hearing Test (make sure your AirPods case is open/connected or AirPods are in your ears to see them show up at the top of your Settings app)
- Follow the prompts to set up the feature if your hearing test indicates you could use assistance
- Your personalized hearing assistance setup will be designed to meet your specific hearing needs from the hearing test data
- Apple also highlights the AirPods hearing aid will also deliver “adjustments that help you hear media like music, videos, and phone calls.”
Are you excited to try the AirPods hearing feature or hearing test? Share your thoughts in the comments!
And check out early feedback about the feature in our roundup:
If you want to grab AirPods Pro 2, you can find them at Amazon, Best Buy, Apple, and more.
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