Recently, Apple has been issuing several updates for its white earbuds. Following the updates for the AirPods Pro 2 – both USB-C and Lightning versions – just before iOS 18.1, the AirPods 4 have now received their update.
How to Check Your AirPods Firmware?
To check the firmware of your AirPods, simply go to the Settings
on iOS, then General
, About
, and finally AirPods
. The information is listed next to the Firmware Version
line, or you can also find it through Settings
/Bluetooth
, then tap the Info
icon. Ensure that the earbuds/headphones are connected to your iOS device, and the update will occur automatically (patience required).
The AirPods 4 firmware has been upgraded from version 7A304 to 7B19. This is the same numbering used for the AirPods Pro 2, which introduced the Hearing Health features. However, these features are not compatible with the AirPods 4, and it’s unlikely that this update will bring significant new features or notable changes.
Apple’s Focus on Hearing Health
As a reminder, the September update introduced new hands-free interaction modes with Siri, allowing users to nod their heads to answer ‘yes’ or ‘no’ to Siri’s suggestions (or to accept or reject a call), as well as Voice Isolation mode and the option to adjust the intensity of noise cancellation in Adaptive mode.
Apple now offers Hearing Health features with its AirPods Pro 2, which include an active noise reduction
feature (Loud Sound Reduction
), a scientifically validated hearing test, and an option for medical-grade hearing aid
functionality. The AirPods 4 will benefit from some enhancements.
Moreover, the California-based company aims to develop a three-pronged approach to hearing health: prevention, detection, and assistance. These themes are reflected in the new options offered. During its presentation, it cited figures from the World Health Organization (over 1.5 billion people globally suffer from hearing loss). It emphasized its foundation of years of work in hearing health, including the Noise app on Apple Watch, headphone noise levels on the iPhone, accessibility features for hearing, and the Apple Hearing Study
.
It is now possible to conduct a Hearing Test, which has been scientifically validated
. Practically, it can be performed at home in just a few minutes, using AirPods Pro as well as a compatible iPhone or iPad. It relies on tone audiometry techniques, and the results are displayed in a straightforward summary. This summary is stored privately and securely in the Health app, though it can still be shared with your doctor.
The AirPods Pro 2 will also offer assistance for individuals with hearing difficulties. After conducting the famous Test and depending on the results, users can customize their listening experience with the AirPods Pro based on their hearing profile. Adjustments made (like emphasizing certain frequencies) can also be activated for music listening and phone conversations.
Hi, my name is Disha and I’m a passionate writer and editor at “Jason Deegan”. With a keen interest in all things tech, I strive to bring you the latest news and updates from the world of high-tech.