Apple has announced that its popular AirPods Pro 2 wireless earphones will soon receive FDA-approved hearing aid functionality, providing a more affordable and accessible alternative to traditional hearing aids.
The update, which is expected to roll out as a free software upgrade this fall, will make AirPods Pro 2 a clinical-grade, over-the-counter hearing aid solution. The move comes on the heels of the FDA’s decision to approve over-the-counter hearing aids in 2022, opening up more affordable options for people with hearing loss.
What sets Apple‘s approach apart is its seamless integration with existing technology. Users will be able to take a five-minute hearing test at home using their iPhone to create a personalized hearing profile. That profile then allows AirPods Pro 2 to amplify sounds based on the wearer’s specific needs, whether it’s speech or environmental sounds.
AirPods Pro 2 automatically adjust audio across all Apple devices, from phone calls to music and games. In addition, users can monitor their hearing health over time by retesting through the Health app.
Apple’s solution is especially suited for people with mild to moderate hearing loss. The company has also included hearing protection features to filter out loud noises, addressing both the support and prevention aspects of hearing health.
More Read
The existing features of AirPods Pro 2, such as transparent mode and conversation awareness, complement the new hearing aid functionality. The result is an all-in-one solution that goes beyond current over-the-counter offerings in terms of versatility and integration.
One of the most significant benefits of Apple’s approach is the reduction of the stigma associated with hearing aids. The ubiquity of AirPods means that users can discreetly receive hearing aids without drawing attention to their condition.
Price is another factor working in Apple’s favor. At $249, the AirPods Pro 2 are significantly more affordable than many other over-the-counter hearing aids, which can cost upwards of $1,000. It’s worth noting, however, that users will need an iPhone running iOS 18 or later to access these features, which could increase the overall cost for some.
Despite their many benefits, the AirPods Pro 2 do have limitations. Battery life is a major concern, with only up to six hours of listening time on a single charge. This falls short of dedicated hearing aids, which can provide more than 20 hours of continuous use.
However, the potential impact of this development cannot be overstated. By leveraging its massive user base and existing technology, Apple is poised to make hearing aids more accessible and mainstream than ever before. This move could encourage millions of AirPods Pro 2 owners to address potential hearing issues they may have otherwise ignored.
