Apple is set to release a hearing health update for AirPods Pro 2 on October 28, which will enable the earbuds to function as hearing aids. Following FDA approval, the update includes a clinically validated hearing test and hearing protection features that mitigate loud sounds. Users can access the hearing test through the AirPods settings and must perform it in a quiet environment to ensure accuracy. The update aims to reduce the stigma associated with hearing aids and address the rising issue of hearing loss, with 44.1 million American adults affected. Additionally, the software uses an algorithm to maintain natural sound quality even in loud environments. This initiative by Apple could make hearing tests more accessible and promote conversations about hearing health.