Apple Rolls Out iOS 18.1 Release Candidate with Hearing Aid Feature for AirPods Pro 2 and More

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Apple has officially released the iOS 18.1 Release Candidate (RC) to registered developers and public beta testers. This latest version of iOS 18.1, made available on Monday, brings several exciting new features and improvements, although it remains largely consistent with previous beta iterations. A standout addition, however, is the newly introduced hearing aid functionality for AirPods Pro 2, alongside enhancements to home and lock screen customisation, the Photos app, and the introduction of the Apple Intelligence feature set.

Hearing Aid Feature for AirPods Pro 2

One of the most notable new features in the iOS 18.1 RC is the hearing aid functionality for AirPods Pro 2. According to Apple, users with mild to moderate hearing loss can now take a clinically validated hearing test when using AirPods Pro 2 paired with an iPhone running iOS 18.1 RC. This feature essentially transforms the AirPods Pro 2 into personalised hearing aids, tuned to meet the specific auditory needs of the user. This groundbreaking update opens new accessibility options for users, adding another dimension to Apple’s long-standing commitment to assistive technologies.

Continued Health and AI Features

In addition to the hearing aid functionality, iOS 18.1 RC retains several health-related features from previous beta versions. This includes sleep apnea detection, a new feature that tracks and reports breathing disturbances during sleep. Users with potential moderate to severe sleep apnea will be informed about any irregularities, encouraging them to seek medical attention if necessary.
A limited feature set powered by Apple Intelligence, the company’s new artificial intelligence (AI) suite, is also available in the RC version. This includes an AI-driven writing assistant that can proofread documents, check for spelling and grammar errors, and rewrite text to fit different tones, such as Concise, Friendly, or Professional. The Photos app has also received AI-powered upgrades, including an object removal tool and an automatic movie creation option, offering a more intuitive user experience.

Refined UI and Customisation Options

iOS 18.1 RC also brings significant customisation enhancements. Users will find improved home and lock screen customisation options, as well as a revamped Control Centre with additional features and greater accessibility. Additionally, a new glowing Siri UI is introduced, adding a visual glow effect around the edges when the voice assistant is activated, creating a more dynamic and modern interface.

Expected Stable iOS 18.1 Release Date

While the RC version is currently available to testers, the stable iOS 18.1 update is expected to be rolled out later this month, with October 28 speculated as the most likely release date. This version will mark the first release of Apple Intelligence features to the general public, and users can expect the full suite of enhancements when the stable release is launched.

Final Thoughts

With iOS 18.1, Apple continues to push boundaries in accessibility, health, and AI-powered user experiences. The inclusion of hearing aid support for AirPods Pro 2 and the growing set of AI-driven tools showcase Apple's ongoing innovation in personalisation and user assistance. As the stable release draws closer, iPhone users can look forward to even more intelligent and user-centric features that enhance both functionality and accessibility.

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