Apple Hearing Health Suite: Your Guide to Using the New Hearing Test on iOS 18.1 and AirPods Pro

Apple has brought an impressive new hearing health feature to iOS 18.1, empowering users to perform a clinically-validated hearing test conveniently from their pocket. Here’s a step-by-step guide to utilizing this innovative tool, along with essential tips to ensure you’re ready to go.

Update Your iPhone and AirPods Pro 2

Before you can access Apple’s hearing test, you must make sure both your devices are up-to-date. Follow these steps:

Checking Your iOS Version

1. Open Settings: Navigate to your iPhone’s General settings.
2. Software Update: Scroll down and tap Software Update to check for available updates.
3. iOS 18.1: Ensure your device is running iOS 18.1.

Updating AirPods Pro 2

1. Connect Your AirPods: Connect your AirPods Pro to your iPhone.
2. AirPods Settings: Go to Bluetooth, tap the i icon next to your AirPods Pro (2022 model), and Select "AirPods Pro".
3. Firmware Info: Scroll down to view firmware details; look for 7B19. If it’s not updated, follow the forced update process described below.

Forced AirPods Update

1. Stable Connection: Connect your AirPods for 30 seconds while playing music.
2. Update Check: Place AirPods back in the charging case and close the lid.
3. Bluetooth Check: Open Bluetooth settings and confirm the AirPods remain connected for more than 10 seconds.

Where to Find Apple’s Hearing Test

Apple provides two easy access points for its hearing test:

AirPods Menu

1. Settings: Go to Settings.
2. Bluetooth > Select your AirPods Pro under Recent Oxygen.
3. Hearing Health: Prominent section found near the Noise Control settings.

Health App

1. Health App: Open and tap Browse at the bottom of the main screen.
2. Hearing: Select with the blue ear icon and scroll down to Get More From Health.

How to Take Apple’s Hearing Test

The test offers a quick, easy-to-follow process:

1. Start Test: Tap Take a Hearing Test.
2. Pre-Test Questions: Answer for current health conditions affecting hearing accuracy.
3. Noise & Fit Check: The test ensures quiet surroundings and a proper fit for accurate results.
4. Tone Test: Tap the screen once you hear each tone, results immediate post-test.

What to Do With Your Hearing Test Results

1. Little or No Loss: Gain insights for maintaining hearing health.
2. Mild to Moderate Loss: Set up hearing assistance features.
3. Severe or Profound Loss: Consult a professional.

Key Takeaways

• Secure Updates: Ensure current iOS and AirPods Pro firmware for accessing Apple’s new features.
• Convenient: Take a clinically-validated hearing test at home in just five minutes.
• Actionable Results: Complete with hearing loss categories and personalized recommendations.

Ready to Enhance Your Hearing Health?

Experience the future of audiology with Apple’s revolutionary hearing health suite. Make sure to update your devices and take the first step towards protecting your hearing with the quick and efficient hearing test.