Apple has introduced a hearing health test feature for AirPods Pro 2 and 3 in India through the latest iOS and iPadOS updates. This feature, which was initially rolled out in select Western countries in 2024, is now available to Indian users, providing a cost-effective way to monitor hearing health.
Why Hearing Health Matters
Gradual hearing loss often develops silently over time, making early detection crucial. However, it is frequently overlooked due to the lack of accessible and affordable testing options. The new feature aims to address this gap by leveraging the advanced technology in AirPods Pro.
Affordable Alternative to Medical-Grade Hearing Aids
Medical-grade hearing aids in India can cost anywhere from Rs 37,000 to Rs 6.2 lakh, making them inaccessible for many. In contrast, AirPods Pro 2 are priced at less than Rs 25,000, offering a more affordable solution for initial hearing assessments.
How the Hearing Test Works
Users can perform a simple five-minute hearing test in a quiet room. The test is accessible through the iPhone or iPad settings after ensuring the AirPods firmware is updated. The results classify hearing loss into categories such as mild, moderate, or severe, and provide recommendations for next steps.
Global Context
According to the World Health Organization, approximately 1.5 billion people worldwide experience some degree of hearing loss. This feature aims to raise awareness and encourage proactive hearing health management.
The hearing test feature is a significant step toward making hearing health more accessible and affordable, particularly in regions like India where the cost of medical-grade devices can be prohibitive.
