Hands-On Apple 206: Testing Hearing Health With Just iPhone & AirPods Pro

Host: Micah Sargent
Date: October 30, 2025
Podcast: All TWiT.tv Shows (Audio)

Episode Overview

In this episode of Hands-On Apple, Micah Sargent demonstrates and explains Apple’s built-in hearing health assessment available when pairing an iPhone with compatible AirPods Pro (specifically AirPods Pro 3 in this episode). The episode walks listeners through the process, features, and potential benefits of conducting a quick and private hearing test from the comfort of home using only Apple devices.

Key Discussion Points & Insights

1. Introduction to iPhone & AirPods Hearing Test

[02:46]

• Micah introduces the feature, highlighting Apple’s integration of personalized audio tuning through AirPods and iPhones.
• The hearing test is accessible for users with compatible devices and helps create a custom sound profile to address individual hearing needs.

“Apple has all of the information needed between these two devices to provide a unique audio profile for you... you can actually complete a hearing test on your phone that then will be used to better provide a sound profile unique to you.”
— Micah Sargent [02:46]

2. The Setup Process

[03:40 – 06:31]

• Steps to access the hearing test:
  • Insert AirPods Pro 3.
  • Tap into their settings within iOS.
  • Look for the “Hearing Health” section and select “Take a hearing test.”
• Health considerations before starting (age, allergies, recent loud environments) are covered.
• The test requires a quiet environment; the system won’t let you proceed if there is too much noise.

“If it's too loud in the environment, it won't even let you tap next to start the test.”
— Micah Sargent [06:13]

3. Ensuring Proper Fit and Calibration

[06:24 – 07:51]

• Instructions prompt users to adjust the AirPods for a snug but comfortable fit, ensuring test accuracy.
• Microphones in the AirPods gauge sound quality and fit.
• The interface provides real-time feedback if the environment or fit isn't appropriate.

4. The Hearing Test Experience

[07:51 – 10:02]

• The phone activates Do Not Disturb to avoid distractions.
• The test consists of:
  • Tones at varying volumes and frequencies, played three times each.
  • User taps the screen each time a tone is heard.
  • The test automatically checks for environmental noise and pauses if needed.

“During the test, listen carefully and tap the screen once when you hear a tone pulse. It's okay if you miss a tone because you'll have another chance to hear it.”
— Micah Sargent [08:16]

• Micah shares his personal experience, noting the subtlety of certain sounds and the effect of his own movement and breathing on perception.

“I did find it a little difficult, as sometimes I wondered if … my brain was making me hear a tone.”
— Micah Sargent [08:26]

5. Results Analysis and Audio Personalization

[09:50 – 10:45]

• Results are instantly available and saved to the iPhone’s Health records.
• Micah’s test shows “little to no hearing loss,” with slight differences across frequencies.
• The test recommends if hearing aid features should be enabled on AirPods and displays an audiogram for user review.

“It says Hearing aid on AirPods Pro is not recommended. The current AirPods tuning is the right match to your test results.”
— Micah Sargent [10:05]

• The audiogram is integrated into the Health app, allowing for continuous monitoring and future comparison.

6. Closing Thoughts

[10:45 – End]

• Micah encourages listeners to try the test, emphasizing its simplicity, non-invasiveness, and value for proactive health tracking.
• A reassurance for users hesitant about difficulty or time commitment.

“If you have been wondering how to complete a hearing test... there is what it looks like to complete a hearing test on your iPhone using your AirPods.”
— Micah Sargent [10:45]

Memorable Quotes

• “You can actually complete a hearing test on your phone that then will be used to better provide a sound profile unique to you.” [02:46]
• “If it's too loud in the environment, it won't even let you tap next to start the test.” [06:13]
• “During the test, listen carefully and tap the screen once when you hear a tone pulse. It's okay if you miss a tone because you'll have another chance to hear it.” [08:16]
• “I did find it a little difficult, as sometimes I wondered if ... my brain was making me hear a tone.” [08:26]
• “It says Hearing aid on AirPods Pro is not recommended. The current AirPods tuning is the right match to your test results.” [10:05]

Timestamps for Key Segments

• [02:46] – What the hearing test feature is and why it matters
• [03:40 – 06:31] – Step-by-step instructions for accessing and beginning the hearing test
• [07:51] – Ensuring proper fit, quiet conditions, and starting the test
• [08:16] – How the tones are played and instructions for user response
• [09:50] – Viewing results, what the data means, and Health app integration
• [10:45] – Final thoughts and encouragement to use the feature

Summary

This episode provides a thorough, accessible walkthrough of Apple’s hearing health technology, demonstrating how users can self-administer a hearing assessment with just their iPhone and AirPods Pro. Micah’s hands-on approach, personal observations, and clear explanations demystify the process and underscore its potential for improving day-to-day audio experiences and supporting long-term hearing health. The integration with the Health app and personalized AirPods tuning are highlighted as standout features, making proactive hearing management both easy and private.

For anyone curious about their hearing health—or about Apple’s latest wellness features—this episode is an engaging, informative listen.