Is This New Technology Right for You? Get the Facts Now.
By now you might have heard about Apple’s new AirPods* Pro 2 Hearing Aid feature. After covering the product in a previous post (https://www.hearingcarepartners.com/blog/about-those-apple-hearing-aids/), we decided to put it to the test with help from a real-world user: our own Dr. Melton’s dad, Jerry!
Read on (and check out the video below) to learn more about the device and what we found.
From Wireless Earbuds to OTC Hearing Instruments
First, a bit of background on the AirPods Pro 2 hearing product. AirPods Pro, wireless earbuds originally designed for music, calls, and other audio, have been on the market for a few years. With the recent introduction of the software-based Hearing Aid feature, however, their function has expanded significantly.
The feature, approved in September 2024 by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration, transforms compatible AirPod earbud models into over-the-counter (OTC) hearing devices for adults with mild to moderate hearing loss. They’re available as hearing instruments in the U.S. due to federal legislation passed in 2017 authorizing OTC devices that meet applicable national regulations.
Firsthand Experience Through an Actual User
So what’s it like to use this Apple product? After some initial hiccups with setting up the feature — setup requires an iOS-powered device like an iPhone or iPad, but it took a couple tries for the program to launch — we tested the AirPods Pro devices with Jerry’s gracious help, and here’s what we found:
- Hearing Assessment
- The AirPods Pro 2 Hearing Aid feature’s built-in hearing screening didn’t fully capture Jerry’s hearing loss, mistakenly indicating he had little to no hearing issue.
- Sound Output
- Through real-ear measurements, an extra step we take to gauge a hearing aid’s actual sound output — we found mixed results in terms of matching Jerry’s specific hearing needs.
- Noise Reduction
- Though the AirPods Pro 2 devices could block some background noise, unwanted sounds such as paper-shuffling could still be heard.
- Speech Clarity
- The devices amplified sound, but understanding speech from someone walking away or turned around was difficult.
- Comfort
- They were a little more bulky and less comfortable than Jerry would prefer, making long-term use feel unappealing.
Jerry liked getting the chance to check out Apple’s technology. Ultimately, however, he felt that the audiologist-prescribed hearing aids that he usually wears performed better for noise reduction. This can be especially important when trying to enjoy conversations outdoors, in large crowds, or at a bustling restaurant.
Importance of Professional Care
As an over-the-counter option, the AirPods Pro 2 Hearing Aid feature shows potential. It could help fill a gap for someone awaiting professionally prescribed and fit hearing aids or needing a solution in a pinch. Although the device’s built-in self-test wasn’t quite on point for Jerry, it might be more accurate for someone else.
The product calls for a certain amount of technical savvy for proper setup and device adjustments. Making adjustments to the AirPods, for example, requires working different settings than those you would use to change how things sound on your phone. This can be a barrier for those less comfortable or adept with tech complexities.
Most importantly, professionally fit hearing aids — regulated and classified as medical devices — are aimed to address the full spectrum of hearing loss, not just mild to moderate loss. They enhance sound comprehension and can be precisely programmed to match your unique listening needs. Additionally, prescriptions can be tailored for nearly every stage of life.
Apple AirPods Pro devices represent an exciting milestone in hearables. Like other OTC hearing instruments, however, they bypass the professional diagnostic evaluation that’s typically recommended. This evaluation, key to establishing a baseline for your hearing, plays a critical role in identifying underlying issues and targeting solutions for long-term hearing health.
With more options than ever, professional care remains crucial for hearing and living your best. At Hearing Care Partners, our experts provide comprehensive diagnostics, work with you on a personalized treatment plan, and answer any questions you may have about devices on the market today.
If it’s been a while since your last hearing checkup, please don’t wait. Contact our knowledgeable team today. We listen, so you can hear!
*Apple and Apple AirPods are trademarks of Apple Inc., registered in the U.S. and other countries and regions.