AirPods Pro 2 to add hearing aid feature for improved sound accessibility

Apple is actively preparing to unveil Hearing Assistance capabilities for the AirPods Pro 2. Although the current iOS 18.1 beta does not have this feature enabled, it is embedded within the update, and Apple may choose to activate it in a subsequent beta version of iOS 18.1.

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Wow, AirPods Pro 2 have a built-in clinical grade hearing test and transform into hearing aids. Apple awaiting FDA clearance soon. pic.twitter.com/YZA8j0sJfU — Joanna Stern (@JoannaStern) September 9, 2024

Upon the launch of Hearing Assistance, users will be invited to either complete a hearing test or submit an audiogram provided by an audiologist.

According to Apple, the outcomes of this process will enable the activation of a hearing aid feature for individuals experiencing mild to moderate hearing loss. Additionally, all users will benefit from sound adjustments aimed at enhancing the clarity of music, videos, and phone calls.

The duration of the test is roughly five minutes, during which users are instructed to tap the screen upon hearing a tone.

The ‌AirPods Pro‌ 2 are advised solely for individuals experiencing mild to moderate hearing loss, as those with more severe hearing loss may find the Hearing Aid feature unsuitable for their needs, reports MacRumors.

Following the hearing assessment, individuals will have the opportunity to activate the Hearing Aid feature if necessary. This feature modifies the surrounding voices and sounds to accommodate tones and frequencies that the user may not be able to perceive.

Apple has obtained FDA approval for the ‌AirPods Pro‌ 2 to operate as an over-the-counter hearing aid, with a potential rollout imminent.

La FDA ya autorizó a los AirPods Pro 2 como el primer dispositivo de venta libre para discapacidad auditiva de grado médico, gracias a las nuevas funciones anunciadas en el Apple Event. Esto podría cambiar el mercado, pues la mayoría de estos audífonos valen más de 1,000 dólares. pic.twitter.com/74QfyAYw10 — Javier Matuk (@jmatuk) September 13, 2024

The company has indicated that this feature is expected to be released this fall, suggesting that it may be introduced in an upcoming iOS 18.1 beta version.

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