Apple’s latest AirPods Pro 2 boast impressive new Hearing Health features, but there’s a catch: the Hearing Protection feature won’t be available globally at launch.
Apple recently announced exciting new Hearing Health features for their AirPods Pro 2, set to arrive with the iOS 18.1 update. These features include a Hearing Test to assess your hearing health and a Hearing Aid feature to assist those with mild to moderate hearing loss. However, a crucial component, the Hearing Protection feature designed to protect users from dangerously loud noises, will initially be limited to the US and Canada. This news, tucked away in a footnote on Apple’s website, has left many users worldwide wondering why.
What is Hearing Protection and why is it restricted?
Imagine being at a concert or using loud machinery. The Hearing Protection feature actively monitors environmental sound levels and automatically reduces excessively loud noises, safeguarding your hearing health. So, why the geographical limitation? The answer likely lies in regulatory hurdles. In the US, the AirPods Pro 2 have received FDA authorization as “clinical-grade” hearing aids. It’s probable that Apple is navigating similar regulatory approvals in other countries before rolling out this feature more broadly.
What about the other Hearing Health features?
The good news is that the Hearing Test and Hearing Aid features will be available in over 100 countries and regions, including the US, Germany, and Japan. These features allow users to assess their hearing and personalize their AirPods Pro 2 to compensate for mild to moderate hearing loss.
My personal take:
As someone who values hearing health, I’m excited about these new features. However, I’m disappointed by the restricted availability of Hearing Protection. I’ve experienced the detrimental effects of loud noises firsthand, and I believe this feature could benefit users globally. Hopefully, Apple can expedite the regulatory processes and make this valuable tool accessible to everyone soon.
Key takeaways:
- Limited Availability: The Hearing Protection feature on AirPods Pro 2 will initially be restricted to the US and Canada.
- Regulatory Hurdles: The reason for the limited rollout is likely due to ongoing regulatory approvals in different countries.
- Global Access to Other Features: The Hearing Test and Hearing Aid features will be available in over 100 countries and regions.
- iOS 18.1 Required: To access these features, ensure your iPhone or iPad is updated to iOS 18.1.
While the initial restriction is disappointing, it’s likely a temporary situation. Apple is probably working diligently to obtain the necessary approvals and expand the availability of Hearing Protection. In the meantime, users in the US and Canada can take advantage of this feature to protect their hearing health.
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