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Apple’s AirPods Pro 2 firmware build 7B19 was reported released on October 24, 2024, ahead of the launch of Apple’s hearing features. At the time, the update enabled Hearing Test, Hearing Aid, and Hearing Protection when paired with compatible iPhone or iPad software. It is a historical release, not a claim that 7B19 is the latest firmware today.
What firmware version added the hearing features?
MacRumors reported that Apple released AirPods Pro 2 firmware 7B19 on October 24, 2024, replacing build 7A305. The report covered both AirPods Pro 2 versions: the model with a USB-C case and the earlier model with a Lightning case. Its release-note account said that AirPods Pro 2 on 7B19 or later, paired with an iPhone or iPad running iOS 18.1 or iPadOS 18.1 or later, could use the Hearing Test, Hearing Aid, and Hearing Protection features. MacRumors’ October 24, 2024 report is the source for that specific build and date.
| # | Preview | Product | Price | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 |
|
Apple AirPods Pro 3 Wireless Earbuds with Active Noise Cancellation | $199.00 | Buy on Amazon |
| 2 |
|
Apple AirPods Pro (2nd generation) with MagSafe Charging Case (USB-C) (Renewed) | $158.99 | Buy on Amazon |
| 3 |
|
Apple AirPods Pro (2nd Generation) (Renewed) | $146.89 | Buy on Amazon |
| 4 |
|
Apple AirPods 4 Wireless Earbuds | $79.55 | Buy on Amazon |
Apple’s current support guidance refers to compatible AirPods Pro 2 or AirPods Pro 3 with the latest firmware and an iPhone or iPad running current software. Firmware changes over time, so check Apple’s AirPods firmware update page for current version information rather than treating 7B19 as current.
What did Apple’s hearing update include?
Apple announced three hearing-health features for AirPods Pro 2 on September 9, 2024, as a free software update for compatible owners. The company said the features would arrive that fall in more than 100 countries and regions, while noting that availability varied by feature and region. Hearing Aid availability was also subject to regulatory authorization. Apple’s announcement described the features as follows:
#1 Best Overall
- WORLD’S BEST IN-EAR ACTIVE NOISE CANCELLATION — Removes up to 2x more unwanted noise than AirPods Pro 2* so you can stay fully immersed in the moment.*
- BREAKTHROUGH AUDIO PERFORMANCE — Experience breathtaking, three-dimensional audio with AirPods Pro 3. A new acoustic architecture delivers transformed bass, detailed clarity so you can hear every instrument, and stunningly vivid vocals.
- HEART RATE SENSING — Built-in heart rate sensing lets you track your heart rate and calories burned for up to 50 different workout types.* With iPhone, you will have access to the Move ring, step count, and the new Workout Buddy,* powered by Apple Intelligence.*
- LIVE TRANSLATION — Communicate across language barriers using Live Translation,* enabled by Apple Intelligence.*
- EXTENDED BATTERY LIFE — Get up to 8 hours of listening time with Active Noise Cancellation on a single charge. Or up to 10 hours in Transparency using the Hearing Aid feature.*
- Hearing Test: A hearing assessment that produces results users can consult and use to inform Hearing Aid settings.
- Hearing Aid: An amplification feature intended for adults with perceived mild to moderate hearing loss.
- Hearing Protection: A feature designed to help reduce exposure to loud environmental noise.
Apple’s October 2024 technical description characterized Hearing Aid as self-fitting, over-the-counter software. At launch it required iOS 18.1 or later or iPadOS 18.1 or later. Users could set it up using results from Apple’s Hearing Test or a suitable audiogram from a hearing professional, then adjust amplification, tone, and balance. See Apple’s hearing-health features white paper for that technical description.
Do existing owners need to buy new AirPods Pro 2?
No. Apple announced the hearing features as a free software update for AirPods Pro 2 customers, so owners of compatible earbuds did not need to replace them just to get the announced features. The relevant requirements were compatible AirPods Pro 2, current firmware, a compatible iPhone or iPad and operating-system version, and availability in the user’s region. A purchase is relevant only for someone who does not already have compatible hardware.
Rank #2
- This pre-owned product is not Apple certified, but has been professionally inspected, tested and cleaned by Amazon-qualified suppliers.
Why might Hearing Aid not appear?
Apple’s current setup instructions require compatible AirPods Pro 2 or AirPods Pro 3 with the latest firmware, plus an iPhone or iPad running current software. Apple says Hearing Aid is intended for adults with perceived mild to moderate hearing loss. Its availability can also depend on region and regulatory authorization. If the feature is missing, check these requirements and consult Apple’s current Hearing Aid setup instructions.
How Hearing Aid works in daily use
Apple says Hearing Aid amplifies environmental sounds while AirPods are in Transparency mode. Media Assist is different: it can improve clarity for music, video, and calls across noise-control modes. These are feature behaviors described by Apple Support, not an indication that every setting or service is available in every country. Apple’s guide to using Hearing Aid explains setup and adjustments.
Quick Recap
Rank #4
- REBUILT FOR COMFORT — AirPods 4 have been redesigned for exceptional all-day comfort and greater stability. With a refined contour, shorter stem, and quick-press controls for music or calls.
- PERSONALIZED SPATIAL AUDIO — Personalized Spatial Audio with dynamic head tracking places sound all around you, creating a theater-like listening experience for music, TV shows, movies, games, and more.*
- IMPROVED SOUND AND CALL QUALITY — AirPods 4 feature the Apple-designed H2 chip. Voice Isolation improves the quality of phone calls in loud conditions. Using advanced computational audio, it reduces background noise while isolating and clarifying the sound of your voice for whomever you’re speaking to.*
- MAGICAL EXPERIENCE — Just say “Siri” or “Hey Siri” to play a song, make a call, or check your schedule.* And with Siri Interactions, now you can respond to Siri by simply nodding your head yes or shaking your head no.* Pair AirPods 4 by simply placing them near your device and tapping Connect on your screen.* Easily share a song or show between two sets of AirPods.* An optical in-ear sensor knows to play audio only when you’re wearing AirPods and pauses when you take them off. And you can track down your AirPods and Charging Case with the Find My app.*
- LONG BATTERY LIFE — Get up to 5 hours of listening time on a single charge. And get up to 30 hours of total listening time using the case.*
Rank #3
- Active Noise Cancellation reduces unwanted background noise
- Adaptive Transparency lets outside sounds in while reducing loud environmental noise
- Personalized Spatial Audio with dynamic head tracking places sound all around you
- Multiple ear tips (XS, S, M, L)
- Touch control lets you swipe to adjust volume, press to direct media playback, answer or end calls, and press and hold to switch between listening modes
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply.
