AirPods Pro can test your hearing, amplify audio, and monitor noise exposure. We explain every health feature and how to set them up on your iPhone.
AirPods Pro Health Features
In September 2024, Apple announced FDA authorization for clinical-grade hearing aid capability in AirPods Pro. What was previously a premium audio product now functions as a regulated medical device for adults with mild-to-moderate hearing loss.
FDA Authorization
FDA authorized AirPods Pro as an over-the-counter hearing aid in September 2024. This meets medical-grade standards for treating hearing loss without requiring a prescription.
Built-In Hearing Test
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AirPods Pro include integrated hearing assessment correlating at 0.974 with professional audiometry. Measures hearing sensitivity across standard frequencies and personalizes audio amplification.
Noise Exposure Monitoring
System continuously monitors environmental noise levels and alerts you to hazardous exposure. Can automatically reduce volume and log exposure in Health app.
Conversation Amplification
Multiple audio modes optimize for different situations: Conversation Boost amplifies voices in noise, Transparency allows ambient sound with amplified speech, and Active Noise Cancellation suppresses background noise.
Sound Personalization
Based on hearing test results, AirPods Pro apply frequency-specific amplification in real-time, boosting quieter sounds while preserving normal levels.
Health App Integration
Hearing data, test results, and noise exposure history integrate directly into Apple Health app for tracking and sharing with audiologists.
Cost Comparison
AirPods Pro versus traditional hearing aids averaging per pair—a 95% cost reduction.
Real-World Effectiveness
Users report significantly clearer speech in restaurants, improved phone quality, and reduced listening fatigue. Works well for mild-to-moderate loss.
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FAQs
Is this a real hearing aid? Yes, FDA-authorized for mild-to-moderate hearing loss. How accurate? 0.974 correlation with professional tests. Can it replace prescription aids? For many with mild-to-moderate loss, yes. Battery life? 4-6 hours with hearing features enabled.