The iOS 18.1 update finally introduced Apple’s much-anticipated hearing health feature. Apple unveiled this new feature earlier this year during the iPhone 16 launch for AirPods Pro 2 users to provide more accessible health tools, especially for those who don’t have access to traditional hearing assessments. Approved by the Food and Drug Administration, Apple’s Hearing Health feature allows users to perform a clinical-grade hearing test using AirPods Pro 2 to assess and track hearing health on their iPhone or iPad.

Apple pointed out that millions of people around the globe are unaware they live with hearing loss and don’t realize the extent of their condition until it starts to affect their daily lives. With Hearing Health, Apple aims to make it easier for users to get an indication of their hearing ability without the need for a clinic visit. This test, performed using AirPods Pro 2, examines a range of frequencies and provides users with information about their hearing ability based on decibel hearing levels (dBHL).

Here’s a detailed step-by-step guide on how to use AirPods Pro 2 to check your hearing health:

How to test your hearing health with AirPods Pro 2

Before starting the test, make sure you’re using an iPhone or iPad with iOS 18.1 or later and that your AirPods Pro 2 are updated to the latest firmware.

Make sure AirPods Pro 2 fit securely and create a good seal in your ears, as the fit is critical for accurate test results. Use the Ear Tip Fit Test in your device settings to confirm the fit. You can also try different sizes of ear tips or clean the headphones for a better seal.

Make sure you are in a quiet environment to avoid interference from background noise. The test includes tones at various volumes and frequencies, so even subtle background noise can affect the results. Apple recommends taking the test in a quiet room, ideally without fan or AC sounds, and setting aside about five minutes without interruption.

Open the Settings app, navigate to your connected AirPods, and look for the “Take a hearing test” option. You can also start the test from the Health app by going to the Hearing section.

After you tap “Take a hearing test,” follow the on-screen instructions. If checks are needed, such as ensuring a quiet environment or checking the fit of the AirPods, the app will let you know.

During the test, you will hear a series of tones on different frequencies. When you hear a tone, simply tap the screen. These tones are repeated several times to ensure accuracy if you miss one initially.

If the test detects an improper fit or other problems, it may pause and prompt you to make adjustments, such as trying a different eartip or moving to a quieter space.

After the test, you will see a summary of your hearing results displayed in decibels of hearing level (dBHL), providing an overview of your hearing ability.

For reference:

Up to 25 dBHL: Little or no hearing loss.
26–40 dBHL: Mild hearing loss; you may have difficulty hearing normal speech at a distance.
41–60 dBHL: moderate hearing loss; raised voices may be required.
61–80 dBHL: Severe hearing loss; understanding speech usually requires shouting.

To get a more in-depth analysis, tap “Show Details” to see a frequency-specific chart of your hearing levels. Apple notes that this audiogram is stored securely in the Health app and can be shared as a PDF with healthcare providers for further consultation.