Why is Apple, one of the biggest and most valuable names in technology, turning its bestselling headphones into lower-cost hearing aids? Because the company has been steadily expanding its reach

AirPods Pro 2, the latest version of Apple’s earbuds, already have an ability that allows users to take a five-minute hearing test. But now, if the test indicates mild to moderate hearing loss, the user can switch on a function to boost their hearing at the touch of a button.

Owners of AirPods Pro 2 in the United Kingdom can use the earbuds as hearing aids, with Apple bringing the feature live in the country a few months after the United States.