Unleashing Apple’s AirPods: Will Health and Fitness Features Be the Next Step?

Apple’s AirPods have been receiving updates that enhance their functionality through software. With the upcoming iOS 18 expected to be announced at WWDC on June 10, it is predicted that AirPods will receive even more health features. Currently, Apple offers heart health features with the Apple Watch, mobility features like walking steadiness-detection on the iPhone, and safety features like fall detection and emergency SOS.

In a recent episode of One More Thing, rumors about future AirPods were discussed, including a hearing aid mode that could launch with iOS 18. There are speculations that AirPods may integrate more sensors in the future, such as an EEG for detecting brain activity. Although Apple filed a patent in 2023 showing such a sensor embedded in earbuds, it remains uncertain if it will be implemented.

There were rumors a few years ago about the AirPods Pro getting a heart rate and body temperature sensor, but this feature has not yet materialized. Other earbuds, such as the recently released Sennheiser Momentum Sport, already offer such features. Consolidating all this data in one’s workout app without having to wear both a watch and earbuds while working out is genuinely helpful.

If these rumored features become reality, it would significantly enhance Apple’s health ambitions. As one of the most affordable entry points into Apple’s wearable line, further expanding the capabilities of AirPods would make them an even more valuable tool for users looking to monitor their health and wellness. Even if the patents mentioned never become a reality, Apple’s exploration of ways to turn its wearables from entertainment devices to fully-fledged health tools is commendable.