To fully utilize the hearing features on your AirPods Pro 3, such as the Hearing Test and Hearing Aid functions, you need to be running iOS 18.1 or later. These features are linked to the enhancements included in the iOS 18.1 update. If your iPhone isn't updated, you might miss out on these functionalities, and no one wants those 'clean your AirPods' errors to appear unexpectedly.
Particularly if you're interested in the Hearing Test feature, it's impressive because your AirPods can customize sound to suit your hearing preferences. The Hearing Aid feature provides real-time assistance to amplify and balance sounds, which can be invaluable in busy environments. Therefore, keeping your iOS updated is crucial for a personalized and user-friendly experience.
Updating your iOS is straightforward. Open the Settings app, tap 'General,' then select 'Software Update.' If an update is available, follow the on-screen instructions to install it. Staying up-to-date with software not only unlocks new features but also enhances security and performance.
If your AirPods are malfunctioning or not syncing properly, checking your software version can often resolve these issues quickly. It's an effective way to ensure everything runs smoothly and you are taking full advantage of Apple's technology.
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Where this comes from: this answer draws on the product's published specifications and the reviews ShopSavvy collected for it, alongside prices from 1 retailer in ShopSavvy's price data, most recently seen Oct 16, 2026.
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