Apple has also introduced a new feature for the second generation AirPods Pro in Italy: the hearing test. The innovation offers users the ability to evaluate their hearing ability in a simple and accessible way, directly from their headphones. Hearing loss, or reduction or loss of hearing, is a growing global problem. The World Health Organization estimates that approximately 1.5 billion people worldwide suffer from hearing loss, with a projection of 2.5 billion by 2050. The consequences of untreated hearing loss can be significant, negatively impacting overall health , on psychological well-being and an increased risk of social isolation and dementia.
The Hearing Test built into AirPods Pro (2nd generation model only) is based onpure tone audiometrya standard clinical method for evaluating hearing. The test, which lasts about five minutes, can be performed at home using second-generation AirPods Pro and a compatible iPhone or iPad running iOS or iPadOS 18.2 or later. The procedure, based on advanced acoustic principles, was designed to be intuitive and user-friendly. Once the test is complete, the user receives an easy to understand report which includes a numerical value representing the hearing level for each ear, the hearing level classification, any recommendations based on the results obtained and an audiogram, which is a graphical representation of the test results.
Test results are stored securely and confidentially in the user’s Health app and can be shared with a healthcare professional for more in-depth evaluation. In addition to the Hearing Test, AirPods Pro (2nd generation) offer other features aimed at protecting and improving users’ hearing experience, starting with reduction of intense soundsactive by default in Transparency and Adaptive Audio modes, reduces the intensity of loud noises, such as those coming from sirens or construction work, while preserving overall audio quality. Noise reduction occurs both passively, thanks to the design of the eartips, and actively, via the H2 chip which processes sound at 48,000 times per second.
We also have a new high dynamic range multiband algorithmwhich optimizes listening to live events, such as concerts, making the sound more natural and engaging. Due to regulatory restrictions, Apple could not release the hearing aid function for AirPods Pro 2 in new countries at this time. Already available in the US, this feature supports hearing assistance for users with mild to moderate hearing loss. Apple is working with the relevant bodies in the hope of making this experience available as soon as possible.
Finally, the new AirPods Pro features integrate with Apple’s wide range of tools and services dedicated to hearing health and accessibility, including: Noise and notifications app on Apple Watch, monitoring of headphone audio levels, haptic music, sound recognition, live listening, sensory alerts, subtitles and transcriptions. The Hearing Test feature is available to users 18 years of age and older and requires AirPods Pro 2 with the latest firmware update, paired with a compatible iPhone or iPad running iOS 18.2 or iPadOS 18.2 and later.
