During TechCrunch’s demonstration at Apple’s recent iPhone event, an early version of the forthcoming Hearing Test app was showcased. This test resembles traditional clinical tests by prompting users to tap the screen when they hear gradually increasing tones of different frequencies.
The Hearing Test app will be integrated into iOS 18, pending FDA approval for both the app and the new hearing aid feature. While there is a possibility of approval before iOS 18’s release on September 16, it is not guaranteed.
To access the hearing aid feature, users must have mild to moderate hearing loss. However, this diagnosis does not have to originate from the app itself; users can also upload results from a third-party test. Individuals with no hearing loss or severe/profound loss will not be able to enable the hearing aid feature and will be advised to consult a specialist.
At launch, the Hearing Aid functionality will only be compatible with the second generation AirPods Pro due to the passive noise canceling from the Pro’s ear tips and the inclusion of the H2 chip, absent in the original Pros.
Once paired with AirPods Pro and inserted into the ears, users can access the feature through iOS settings. The testing process takes approximately five minutes and creates a customized sound profile based on the results for conversations, movies, and music.
The introduction of user-customizable sound profiles through the hearing aid feature raises speculation about broader customization options in Apple’s future audio devices. Although adjustments to the EQ of earpods are currently available, the hearing aid feature will offer more personalized playback for users with identified hearing loss.
The potential mainstreaming of customizable sound profiles can enhance the overall Apple audio experience, especially with the anticipated release of AirPods Pro 2.
