AirPods Pro: Hearing test and hearing aid with iOS 18.1 on the way
iPhone users will soon be able to carry out a hearing test and fine-tune their AirPods Pro. The in-ears are to protect hearing at concerts and other events.
Only the AirPods Pro 2 –, recognizable by the silicone tips –, receive the hearing aid update.
(Image: Sebastian Trepesch)
AirPods Pro will soon be able to serve as a hearing aid. In the coming week – from October 28, –, Apple plans to release corresponding updates that will unlock the previously announced functionality. Specifically, these are iOS 18.1, iPadOS 18.1, macOS 15.1 Sequoia and a new firmware for AirPods Pro 2, as confirmed by the manufacturer to US media.
Hearing test, hearing aid and hearing protection
The in-ears also protect against loud external noises as standard to protect your hearing. A new algorithm is designed to ensure that concerts and live events continue to sound normal despite a reduction – of around 20 to 30 decibels, depending on the mode selected –. According to Apple, the hearing protection is designed for loud environments with up to around 110 dB(A). It does not provide protection against sudden individual noises, such as an extremely loud bang.
A clinically validated pure-tone hearing test can then be carried out with the AirPods Pro 2 in the Health app on the iPhone and iPad and the results recorded. For mild to moderate hearing loss, iOS 18.1 allows the in-ears to be configured as a hearing aid and the audiogram used for phone calls and media playback on the device – as well as in combination with other Apple devices.
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iOS 18.1: release probably on October 28
However, users may need several weeks to get used to the sound of the hearing aid function, Apple explained to The Verge. The hearing aid can be fine-tuned in the settings. The recently launched AirPods 4 do not support the hearing test, hearing aid or the improved hearing protection function.
iOS / iPadOS 18.1 and macOS 15.1 are the first major updates for Apple's latest operating systems. They bring a range of new functions and should also address bugs and problems that are currently plaguing users. The core innovation is the introduction of Apple Intelligence. It was recently speculated that the updates will be released next Monday, October 28.
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