The Long-Awaited Hearing Health Functions Arrive for AirPods Pro 2
AirPods Pro 2's highly anticipated sound health features have officially dropped in a recent software update. Users can update their AirPods Pro to the latest version for immediate access, but the full functionality won't be available until iOS 18.1's release on October 28th.
The sound health update offers three features: a hearing test, hearing aid capability, and active noise cancellation. These features are complimentary and compatible with both the iPhone and iPad, as long as the device is running iOS 18.1.
The initial feature simplifies the identification of hearing impairment within the comfort of your personal space. It's more cost-effective, time-saving, and encourages regular testing. At a health briefing, Apple revealed to Gizmodo that an estimated 25 million Americans unknowingly suffer from hearing loss. While some perceive it as a complete inability to hear, it actually exists on a spectrum, with varying degrees of impact. Hence, frequent checks of your auditory health are crucial.
The hearing test is conducted within the iOS Health app and takes approximately five minutes to complete. It involves reacting to a series of tones by tapping the screen. Upon completion, the results screen shows individual scores for both ears with a comment like "Your test suggests moderate hearing loss." The results remain on the Health app for future reference, enabling you to monitor your ear health progressively by repeating the test. Additionally, you can save and share your results with a healthcare professional if needed.
The second feature enhances the AirPods Pros' capabilities, effectively converting them into hearing aids. These hearing aids amplify frequencies, resulting in a more lively and precise sound. They also make real-time adjustments in intensity based on your surroundings. It's not just for individuals with hearing challenges – the hearing aid feature improves hearing quality, potentially enhancing music audio for those with healthy ears.
Lastly, the third feature safeguards your ears against excessive and harsh environmental sounds. In environments as noisy as 110 dBA, the noise cancellation feature reduces sound levels by 48,000 times per second, providing relief to your ears. Semi-professional activities like a fitness class (100 dBA) and lawn mowing (90 dBA) are examples of noises the feature tackles. It operates across all listening modes, and the silicone ear tips further contribute to noise reduction.
The integration of these advanced sound health features is set to revolutionize the tech industry, particularly with Apple's flagship device, the iPhone and iPad. In the future, we can expect more tech companies to follow suit, making hearing health a priority in personal technology.
The new AirPods Pro 2's sound health features, including hearing aid capability, are a testament to Apple's commitment to combining tech with future healthcare solutions, further solidifying their position as a tech giant in the 21st century.
