New AirPods 4 Models Set for Fall Launch; AirPods Pro to Add 'Hearing Aid Mode'

Apple gears up for an exciting AirPods lineup revamp, with two new AirPods 4 models expected this fall alongside a “Hearing Aid Mode” update for AirPods Pro in iOS 18, reveals Bloomberg's Mark Gurman.

Mark Gurman's Insights: Expectations for Upcoming AirPods 4 and AirPods Pro Features

Gurman anticipates a thrilling upgrade in both fourth generation AirPods models, featuring a revamped design for a snug fit, enhanced sound quality for an immersive audio experience, and an updated charging case with a USB-C port for faster charging.

The top-tier models will even sport active noise cancellation and a charging case speaker capable of playing a sound for Find My Location tracking, promising a futuristic audio experience.

In a recent report by MacRumors, Gurman previously stated that Apple intends to discontinue the second and third generation AirPods after releasing the two fourth-generation models.

Gurman expects new AirPods Pro to be released next year at the latest, but he does say the current models will get a new hearing aid mode in iOS 18. He added that Apple is developing a hearing test feature for AirPods.

iOS 18 to Introduce 'Hearing Aid Mode' for AirPods Pro

According to Bloomberg's Mark Gurman, the upcoming iOS 18 release will include a new "hearing aid mode" for AirPods Pro.

In the subscriber edition of his regular Power On newsletter, Gurman claims that the "big news" for AirPods Pro shortly will be support for a hearing aid-style function when iOS 18 is released in the fall.

The first rumor surfaced in a 2021 Wall Street Journal report, but it was previously framed as a feature reserved for the next generation of AirPods Pro. However, Apple released the second-generation AirPods Pro in September 2022, and the company recently updated the model with a USB-C port.

The AirPods Pro already have a Conversation Boost feature that increases the volume and clarity of people directly in front of the wearer. Still, Apple needs to advertise the earbuds as a hearing aid device, which would require FDA regulatory approval.

The FDA defines a hearing aid as "any wearable device designed for, offered for the purpose of, or represented as aiding persons with or compensating for, impaired hearing." This definition includes air-conduction and bone-conduction devices in various styles (for example, behind-the-ear, in-the-canal, or body-worn).

Photo: Dagny Reese/Unsplash