Oliver Haslam·

How To Enable iOS 14 Real-Time Headphone Volume Level Measurement

Apple’s iOS 14 is currently working its way through the developer beta and now public beta programs and we’re constantly learning of new features that are being added in each update. Others are simply being found as people use their iPhones more.

From testing of iOS 14, we now know that the update will add support for real-time monitoring of headphone volume levels.

Those with iOS 13 were already able to see headphone volume levels in the Health app, but that only worked for historical values. Now, Apple is adding the feature for real-time monitoring via Control Center.

Prolonged exposure to high volume audio can cause hearing issues and if headphone audio exceeds the 80dB level a new Control Center icon will turn yellow. Predictably, Apple says the feature is best used with AirPods and, presumably, Beats headphones with the H1 or W1 chip.

You can enable the new feature by opening the Settings app and tapping “Control Center”. Swipe down and enable the “Hearing” option by tapping the green + icon beside it.

Now, when you open Control Center while listening through headphones, you’ll notice the new icon in action. Try to make sure that it doesn’t turn yellow and you’ll be fine. If it does, maybe it’s time to turn the volume down a tad.

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