Apple has announced some new hearing health related features, coming as a software update for AirPods Pro 2. This includes a hearing protection mode being enabled by default, offering passive noise cancellation in loud environments. Apple is also launching a “clinical grade” hearing aid mode, as part of a software update coming later this year.

A new hearing test takes about five minutes and will help adjust audio output based on the user's results. This plays into the new hearing aid feature, which Apple calls "clinical grade" for moderate hearing loss. FDA approval is pending, so the feature will roll out later in the fall. Only the AirPods Pro 2 will get the feature.

For those who already have hearing loss, the AirPods Pro 2 will utilize the data gathered by the hearing test to generate a custom sound profile and enhance the listening experience. It will essentially act as a hearing aid for people with mild to moderate hearing loss, allowing them to better hear others or their surroundings.

T he new AirPods were announced at the Apple “Glowtime” event. The hearing aid feature, when enabled, boosts specific sounds in real time, like parts of speech or elements of an environment. Apple says this will allow wearers to better hear their surroundings and engage in conversations.