Recently, TechCrunch had the opportunity to demo an early version of Apple’s upcoming Hearing Test app, which is set to be included in iOS 18. This app has key similarities to clinical hearing tests and requires users to tap the display when they hear gradually increasing tones of different frequencies.
The Hearing Test app will only be accessible to users with mild to moderate hearing loss. Those with no hearing loss or severe/profound loss will not be able to utilize the app. If a user falls into one of these categories, the app will recommend that they seek guidance from a hearing specialist. Additionally, users will have the option to upload third-party test results to enable the hearing aid feature.
At launch, the hearing aid feature will only be available for the second generation AirPods Pro. This limitation is due to the passive noise canceling provided by the Pro’s ear tips and the inclusion of the H2 chip that is absent in the original AirPods Pro. While the app will offer a custom sound profile based on test results, users without hearing loss will not be able to fine-tune playback using this feature.
The introduction of the Hearing Test app and hearing aid feature raises questions about the future of user-customizable sound profiles in Apple products. Similar to how the AssistiveTouch feature on the Apple Watch led to the DoubleTap gesture, it’s possible that Apple is laying the groundwork for more personalized audio experiences in the future. While other companies have tried and failed to capitalize on customizable sound profiles, mainstreaming this feature could greatly enhance the Apple audio ecosystem.
It’s important to note that the FDA is currently reviewing both the Hearing Test app and the hearing aid feature for approval. While there is hope that approval may come before the general availability of iOS 18 on September 16, there are no guarantees at this time. The space of over-the-counter hearing aids is still new, with the FDA only establishing it as a category in mid-2023.
Apple’s upcoming Hearing Test app and hearing aid feature represent a significant step forward in user accessibility and customization. By integrating these functionalities into their products, Apple is not only addressing the needs of users with hearing loss but also potentially paving the way for a more tailored audio experience for all users. Keep an eye out for the launch of iOS 18 and the arrival of the AirPods Pro 2 to see how these features will shape the future of Apple’s audio technology.