Apple has significantly expanded the availability of its AirPods Pro 2 hearing aid functionalities, bringing these advanced features to users in numerous additional countries across Europe, Asia, and South America. This expansion underscores Apple’s commitment to enhancing accessibility and providing innovative health solutions globally.
Introduction of Hearing Aid Features
In September 2024, Apple introduced a suite of clinical-grade hearing aid features for the AirPods Pro 2. These features include a comprehensive hearing health test that allows the earbuds to function as hearing aids, specifically designed for individuals with mild to moderate hearing loss. The hearing test assesses the user’s hearing capabilities and, based on the results, personalizes the amplification of ambient sounds to suit the user’s unique hearing profile.
Recent Global Expansion
As of July 2025, Apple has extended these hearing aid features to the following countries:
– Argentina
– Ecuador
– Honduras
– Indonesia
– Israel
– Kazakhstan
– Moldova
– Palestinian Territories
– Serbia
– Taiwan
– Thailand
– Ukraine
– Vietnam
This expansion means that users in these regions can now access the hearing test feature to evaluate their hearing and, if necessary, activate the hearing aid functionality of the AirPods Pro 2.
How the Hearing Test Works
The hearing test is accessible through the AirPods section in the Settings app on an iPhone or iPad when the AirPods Pro 2 are connected. The test involves playing tones at various frequencies and sound levels in each ear, with users indicating when they hear a sound. Apple tests four frequencies: 500Hz, 1kHz, 2kHz, and 4kHz. The results are categorized as follows:
– Up to 25 dBHL: Little to no hearing loss
– 26 to 40 dBHL: Mild hearing loss
– 41 to 60 dBHL: Moderate hearing loss
– 61 to 80 dBHL: Severe hearing loss
– Above 80 dBHL: Profound hearing loss
For users with mild to moderate hearing loss, the AirPods Pro 2 can utilize the test results to enhance specific frequencies, improving the clarity of voices and other sounds. Additionally, the Media Assist feature adjusts music, videos, and calls to optimal sound levels based on the personalized hearing profile.
Regulatory Approvals and Rollout
The rollout of these features has been gradual, as many countries require health organization certification before allowing devices to function as hearing aids. In September 2024, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) authorized the first over-the-counter (OTC) hearing aid software for use with Apple’s AirPods Pro. This approval marked a significant milestone in making hearing assistance more accessible and affordable.
User Experience and Accessibility
The integration of hearing aid functionalities into the AirPods Pro 2 offers a discreet and cost-effective solution for individuals with hearing impairments. Unlike traditional hearing aids, which can be expensive and stigmatized, the AirPods Pro 2 provide a familiar and widely accepted alternative. Users can conduct the hearing test in about five minutes and receive immediate feedback, allowing for quick adjustments to their hearing profile.
Conclusion
Apple’s expansion of the AirPods Pro 2 hearing aid features to additional countries represents a significant advancement in accessible health technology. By leveraging existing hardware and integrating sophisticated software solutions, Apple is providing users worldwide with innovative tools to manage their hearing health effectively.
