Apple has launched innovative health-focused features for AirPods Pro 2 in France. These include a hearing test and a loud sound reduction feature designed to protect users’ auditory health. However, the much-anticipated hearing aid mode remains unavailable due to regulatory restrictions in the European Union.
Cutting-Edge Technology for Hearing Health
The hearing test feature allows users to assess their auditory health through a sequence of low-volume tones, which generate a detailed report in the Health app. According to Apple, the results are comparable to professional audiometry exams. The loud sound reduction function automatically dampens loud, intermittent noises, offering relief in busy environments like subways or crowded events.
Despite the utility of these features, the hearing aid mode—a key function designed to adjust ambient sounds in real time based on the hearing test results—remains inaccessible. This advanced capability is available in over 100 countries but is stalled in France and other EU nations due to medical device classification regulations.
Regulatory Hurdles Delay Hearing Aid Mode
In the European Union, hearing aid functionalities are subject to strict medical device standards, including clinical testing and approval from health authorities. France’s regulatory framework has delayed the rollout of Apple’s hearing aid feature, with approval unlikely before 2025. The device must meet the Medical Device Regulation (MDR) requirements to ensure safety and efficacy.
A Step Forward with Room for Growth
While the hearing aid feature is pending, the introduction of the hearing test and sound reduction technology marks a significant step forward for auditory health solutions in consumer tech. French users can access these features through the Health app or AirPods settings, provided they have updated to iOS 18.1.
Apple’s efforts highlight the potential of wearable technology to enhance health monitoring. However, the regulatory hurdles underscore the complexities of introducing medical-grade functionalities in global markets. As the wait for approval continues, Apple’s advancements in hearing health remain a promising development for its AirPods Pro 2 users.
