Apple is expanding its AirPods Pro hearing test to nine additional countries with the release of iOS 18.2.
The update includes Cyprus, Czechia, France, Italy, Luxembourg, Romania, Spain, the UAE, and the UK.
This feature, which debuted in iOS 18.1, transforms AirPods Pro into a hearing aid in select regions, including the UAE.
The feature, hailed as “clinical-grade,” turns on Do Not Disturb automatically during use. AirPods running firmware version 7B19 or later are required to access the hearing test and other health-related functions.
Apple’s move into the over-the-counter hearing aid market marks a significant milestone in changing societal perceptions of hearing loss and hearing aids.
Soundly CEO Blake Cadwell emphasized the importance of Apple’s involvement, particularly in reducing the stigma around hearing aids.
This expansion comes just days after Sarah Herrlinger, Apple’s head of accessibility, discussed the company’s years of expertise in developing this feature.
While AirPods Pro now function as hearing aids, Apple is clear that the feature is aimed at people with mild-to-moderate hearing loss.
Apple’s goal is not to compete with traditional hearing aids but to encourage more people with undiagnosed hearing issues to use AirPods as a tool for better hearing health.
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