As part of the iOS 18.1 release, the AirPods Pro 2 will soon offer clinical-grade hearing aid capabilities, a hearing test, and enhanced hearing protection.
While these features are rolling out next week in the U.S., Canadian users will need to wait for the hearing aid and test functions to become available, though hearing protection will be included immediately (via The Verge).
The upcoming firmware update for the AirPods Pro 2 pairs with iOS 18.1 to introduce robust hearing protection that functions across all listening modes, including noise cancellation, transparency, and adaptive audio.
Apple has made this feature more intuitive by eliminating the need for users to toggle specific settings like a “concert mode.” Instead, hearing protection is now always on by default.
The enhanced hearing protection builds on Apple’s existing loud sound reduction feature, now powered by what Apple describes as a “multiband high dynamic range algorithm.” This new algorithm helps to preserve the natural sound quality of live events, such as concerts, while simultaneously protecting users’ hearing from excessive noise exposure.
Users can enjoy customizable listening experiences with different modes. Adaptive audio allows users to fine-tune their balance between noise cancellation and passthrough, making it ideal for those seeking more personalized audio control.
Even in full transparency mode, hearing protection remains active, providing safety without compromising sound clarity. The more noise cancellation applied, the longer users can comfortably stay in loud environment.
However, it’s important to note that the AirPods Pro 2’s hearing protection has limitations. It isn’t designed to handle extremely loud, sudden noises like gunfire, fireworks, or jackhammers. Additionally, sustained noises above 110dBA—often experienced in clubs or at some concerts—may exceed the protection limits of the earbuds.
The hearing protection and hearing aid features in the AirPods Pro 2 signal a new era in wearable technology, one that merges high-quality audio with practical health solutions.
For now, Canadians will be able to benefit from the enhanced hearing protection as they wait for the hearing aid and hearing test capabilities to be rolled out.
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