Apple's AirPods Pro 2 has been formally authorized as an over-the-counter hearing aid in the United Kingdom, offering a new assistive technology option for people with mild to severe hearing loss. This approval allows users to access hearing enhancement features without requiring a prescription, making hearing assistance more accessible.
With the most recent software update, AirPods Pro 2 owners could use their iPhone to do a built-in hearing test. The test takes around five minutes and evaluates the amount of hearing loss in each ear. The results provide a tailored audiogram, which is saved in the Health app, allowing users to evaluate their hearing profile and interact with healthcare specialists as required.
Once the test is completed, users kindly apply their unique hearing profile to their AirPods Pro 2. This feature improves external audio, allowing you to hear conversations and surrounding noises more clearly. Additionally, the hearing profile is applied automatically when listening to music, watching movies, or consuming other media on an Apple device, enhancing the audio experience based on individual hearing requirements.
Besides its core hearing function, the AirPods Pro 2 also includes Loud Sound Reduction, which protects users’ hearing from any harm due to high-volume situations. This feature is enabled by default and operates independently of the other hearing health settings, ensuring continuous auditory protection.
Apple has expressed enthusiasm about this latest development, underlining its commitment to offering an end-to-end hearing health experience to UK customers. This innovation marks a significant step in integrating assistive hearing technology into daily consumer goods, reducing barriers to access and affordability.
It is important to know that these hearing health features are limited to the second-generation AirPods Pro, released in late 2022. These capabilities are not supported by the first-generation AirPods Pro, AirPods 4, AirPods Max, or Beats devices.
With this approval, AirPods Pro 2 are no longer just premium wireless earbuds but also a convenient and cost-effective hearing aid solution, increasing their usefulness beyond entertainment and communication to include critical health assistance.