# AirPods Pro 2 to Gain Hearing Aid Functionality with iOS 18.1 Launch
Apple is preparing to unveil a revolutionary feature for the AirPods Pro 2, allowing them to function as hearing aids. This eagerly awaited capability will arrive next week with the launch of iOS 18.1, highlighting Apple’s dedication to health and accessibility.
## A New Chapter in Hearing Health
The hearing aid feature for AirPods Pro 2 has been under development for a while, and it was officially revealed at the iPhone 16 presentation. Soon after, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) classified the AirPods Pro 2 as over-the-counter (OTC) hearing aid devices. This designation enables individuals with mild to moderate hearing loss to utilize the AirPods Pro 2 as hearing aids without requiring a prescription or professional fitting.
As per the FDA, the upcoming “Hearing Aid Feature” will enhance sound for users aged 18 and older who face hearing challenges. This innovation is poised to be transformative for those in search of an economical, advanced solution to hearing issues.
## Prominent Features of the AirPods Pro 2 Hearing Aid Capability
Apple’s latest hearing aid feature is part of a wider initiative aimed at establishing an “all-in-one hearing health experience” that concentrates on three main areas: prevention, awareness, and assistance.
### 1. **Prevention**
The AirPods Pro 2 already deliver passive noise cancellation through their ear tips, but the forthcoming update takes this further with active noise cancellation driven by the H2 chip. This chip operates at a remarkable 48,000 times per second to mitigate loud, sporadic noises, safeguarding users’ hearing in various loud settings. Additionally, Apple has rolled out a new multiband high dynamic range algorithm to enhance sound quality and hearing protection.
### 2. **Awareness**
A standout characteristic is the option to perform a clinical-grade hearing assessment right through the AirPods Pro 2. This test follows pure-tone audiometry (the standard clinical method) and lasts about five minutes, giving users a comprehensive overview of their hearing health. The outcomes include a classification of hearing loss for both ears, along with tailored recommendations.
### 3. **Assistance**
After completing the hearing assessment, the AirPods Pro 2 can be set up to operate as clinical-grade hearing aids. The personalized hearing profile derived from the test allows the AirPods to automatically adjust sound levels in real-time, facilitating better engagement in conversations and keeping users connected to their surroundings.
## First Impressions
Numerous tech reporters have already had the chance to try out the new hearing aid features, and the reviews have been extremely favorable. Outlets like *TechRadar*, *The Verge*, *Wired*, and *Tom’s Guide* commend the functionality, highlighting how effortlessly the AirPods Pro 2 shift from standard earbuds to hearing aids.
These evaluations emphasize the potential of the AirPods Pro 2 to transform the hearing aid industry by providing a more budget-friendly and accessible solution for individuals with hearing difficulties.
## Availability
The innovative hearing aid features will be accessible as part of the iOS 18.1 update, anticipated to be launched next week. This update will not only bring the hearing aid functionality to the AirPods Pro 2 but also introduce various enhancements across Apple’s ecosystem, including the highly awaited Apple Intelligence feature for iPhone, iPad, and Mac users.
Keep an eye out for further updates as iOS 18.1 becomes available, and prepare to explore the next advancement in hearing health with the AirPods Pro 2.
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*Image Credit: Christian de Looper for BGR*
*Source: Apple Inc.*
