Apple’s AirPods Pro 2 Update Introduces Hearing Test and Health Features
As the demand for headphones and earbuds continues to grow, their role in daily life has evolved beyond simply delivering music. From luxury collaborations like Sandy Liang’s partnership with Beats to the $15,000 CHANEL Première Sound Watch, personal audio devices have become both a fashion statement and an essential tool. According to a recent report by Credence Research, the global headphone and earbud industry is set to skyrocket, projecting a market value of $218.2 billion by 2032—a 205% increase from $71.5 billion in 2023.
With this rising popularity, concerns about hearing health have also gained prominence. While many people are aware of risks such as vision strain from excessive screen time, hearing loss is often overlooked, particularly among younger generations. The World Health Organization (WHO) has sounded the alarm, stating that over 1 billion young adults are at risk of permanent, avoidable hearing damage due to unsafe listening practices. This trend has been fueled by prolonged exposure to high-volume music in recreational settings, with or without headphones.
Apple’s Response to the Growing Hearing Health Concerns
Apple, a company renowned for its ecosystem of interconnected devices, is no stranger to the personal audio industry. With AirPods leading the market, Apple is projected to generate over $22 billion in revenue from its wireless earbuds alone in 2024, according to Bloomberg. Given this massive market presence, Apple has taken proactive steps to address hearing health concerns by introducing new accessibility and health-focused features to its AirPods Pro 2.
As part of its ongoing commitment to accessibility, Apple has integrated innovative features that extend beyond traditional audio capabilities. The company is celebrating 40 years of accessibility initiatives, dating back to 1985 when it first launched its Office of Disability. Sarah Herrlinger, Apple’s Global Head of Accessibility, emphasized that Apple’s dedication to accessibility even preceded the enactment of the Americans with Disabilities Act by five years.
This commitment is reflected in Apple’s latest software updates, particularly for the AirPods Pro 2. While Apple’s earbuds have not been directly linked to hearing loss, the company acknowledges the broader risks associated with prolonged exposure to loud audio. By leveraging its technological expertise, Apple has introduced new functionalities designed to help users monitor their hearing health and take preventative action.
Hearing Test: A Self-Assessment Tool for Hearing Health
One of the most notable additions to the AirPods Pro 2 is the Hearing Test, a feature designed to provide users with insights into their hearing health. This self-assessment takes approximately five minutes and evaluates hearing ability across different frequencies. The results are categorized into five levels:
- Little to No Loss (-25 to 25 dBHL)
- Mild Loss (26 to 40 dBHL)
- Moderate Loss (41 to 60 dBHL)
- Severe Loss (61 to 80 dBHL)
- Profound Loss (81 dBHL and above)
While not a replacement for professional medical evaluations, this feature offers users a convenient way to check their hearing periodically. Apple’s Sarah Herrlinger describes it as a “medical-grade hearing test available on iPhone or iPad,” giving users a simple yet effective tool to monitor their auditory well-being.
Music Haptics: Enhancing the Listening Experience
In addition to the Hearing Test, Apple has expanded its Music Haptics feature, initially introduced in 2023. Designed to enhance the listening experience for individuals who are deaf or hard of hearing, Music Haptics utilizes the iPhone’s Taptic Engine to generate vibrations that correspond with the rhythm and intensity of a song. These subtle yet powerful taps and textures provide a tangible way to experience music beyond sound alone.
Apple has continuously added new songs to its Apple Music catalog with Music Haptics enabled, further expanding accessibility options for its users. Although originally intended for the deaf and hard-of-hearing community, Music Haptics can be enjoyed by anyone looking for a unique way to experience their favorite songs.
AirPods Pro 2: From Audio Device to Health Companion
Apple has strategically positioned the AirPods Pro 2 as more than just a high-quality audio device. Much like how the Apple Watch evolved from a smartwatch to a health-monitoring tool capable of detecting irregular heart rhythms, AirPods Pro 2 now offers preventative health features that could prove beneficial to a wide range of users.
These advancements align with Apple’s broader vision of integrating health-focused technology into everyday products. By making accessibility features mainstream, the company ensures that these tools are not only available to those with specific medical conditions but also to general users who may benefit from early detection and awareness of potential health issues.
The Future of Health-Integrated Audio Technology
As Apple continues to innovate, future iterations of AirPods could introduce even more advanced health monitoring capabilities. Potential developments could include real-time monitoring of sound exposure levels, personalized audio adjustments based on hearing test results, and even AI-driven recommendations for safer listening habits.
Apple’s proactive approach to hearing health reflects a broader industry trend where technology companies are incorporating wellness features into their products. Whether it’s the Apple Watch detecting heart irregularities or AirPods Pro 2 assessing hearing health, the integration of health-monitoring tools into consumer devices is becoming a defining feature of modern tech.
For users of AirPods Pro 2, the Hearing Test offers an easy way to check on their auditory well-being, while Music Haptics opens new possibilities for engaging with music. As Apple continues its mission of making technology more accessible and health-conscious, it reinforces the notion that an Apple a day might just help keep your ears healthy, too.
