Apple has launched a comprehensive hearing health experience for AirPods Pro 2 users in the United Arab Emirates, featuring a scientifically validated Hearing Test, a clinical-grade Hearing Aid function, and Loud Sound Reduction. This launch follows marketing authorization from the UAE Ministry of Health and Prevention.
Dr. Lubaina Sharafally of American Hospital Dubai praised the new features, highlighting their potential to improve the quality of life for individuals with hearing impairments. She emphasized the convenience of the in-app hearing test and the ability to share results with healthcare professionals, streamlining diagnosis and treatment.
Recognizing the global impact of hearing loss, affecting approximately 1.5 billion people worldwide according to the World Health Organization, Apple has developed an intuitive Hearing Test based on pure-tone audiometry, the clinical gold standard. Users can conduct the five-minute test at home using their AirPods Pro 2 and a compatible iPhone or iPad. The test provides a clear summary of results, including a hearing level for each ear, a classification, and recommendations. Results, including an audiogram, are securely stored in the Health app and can be shared with healthcare providers.
For those with mild to moderate hearing loss, AirPods Pro 2 now offer an innovative over-the-counter Hearing Aid capability. Using the personalized hearing profile generated by the Hearing Test (or an audiogram from a professional), AirPods Pro 2 can function as a clinical-grade hearing aid, dynamically adjusting sound in real time to enhance conversations and environmental awareness. This personalized profile is automatically applied to various audio experiences, including music, movies, games, and calls.
Additionally, AirPods Pro 2 feature Loud Sound Reduction, designed to minimize exposure to loud environmental noise while preserving audio fidelity. Combining passive noise reduction from the ear tips with active reduction by the H2 chip (at a rate of 48,000 times per second), this feature, enabled by default in Transparency and Adaptive Audio modes, is particularly beneficial in loud environments. A new multiband high dynamic range algorithm further enhances the natural and vibrant quality of sounds at live events.
