By Julie Clover
Apple today released a new firmware update for AirPods Pro 2, with the software available for both USB-C and Lightning models. The AirPods Pro 2 firmware has a build number of 7B19, which is an upgrade from firmware 7A305 released in September.
The new AirPods Pro 2 firmware comes just before Apple plans to launch Hearing Health features in iOS 18.1. Hearing Health includes a hearing test that simulates an audiologist’s test and hearing aid functionality if that test detects mild to moderate hearing loss.
The release notes for the update are as follows:
- When used with an iPhone or iPad running iOS 18.1 or iPadOS 18.1 or later, AirPods Pro 2 with the 7B19 firmware update include three new features: Hearing Test, Hearing Aid, and Hearing Protection.
- Apple’s Hearing Test feature delivers scientifically validated hearing test results in the comfort of your own home (designed for users ages 18 and up).
- Hearing Aid provides personalized, clinical-grade help that’s automatically applied to the sounds in your environment, as well as music, videos, and calls (designed for users ages 18 and up with suspected mild to moderate hearing loss).
- Hearing Protection helps users minimize their exposure to loud environmental noise in listening modes (available in the U.S. and Canada)
Features require AirPods Pro 2 with firmware version 7B19 or later. Not all features may be available in all countries or regions.
Apple has approved AirPods Pro 2 as an over-the-counter hearing aid in the U.S. This hearing aid feature will improve conversations and other ambient sounds for those who have difficulty hearing.
The update also includes Hearing Protection, which will continuously monitor the user’s environment to reduce exposure to loud sounds. At launch, the functionality will be limited to the US and Canada.
Hearing Health will be introduced in iOS 18.1, scheduled for release next Monday.
Apple doesn't have the ability to manually update AirPods software, but firmware is typically installed over the air when the AirPods are in the charging case and connected to an iOS device or Mac.
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