As an audiologist who appreciates cutting-edge technology, I’ve always been a fan of Apple products. I use my iPhone daily and rely on my AirPods for everything from listening to podcasts between appointments and taking calls with patients and colleagues.
So when Apple announced the new AirPods Pro 2 would include over-the-counter (OTC) hearing aid functionality, I was intrigued — it’s always exciting to see innovation in the world of hearing health.
But despite my enthusiasm for Apple’s gadgets, I believe it’s important to set the record straight: while the Apple AirPods Pro 2 may help some people with mild hearing loss, they are no substitute for prescription hearing aids or the personalized care provided by a licensed audiologist.
Let’s break down what the new AirPods Pro 2 can do, and more importantly, what they can’t do when it comes to hearing health.
Apple has added some impressive features to the AirPods Pro 2, including a built-in hearing test, hearing aid functionality, and even hearing protection. These innovations are part of Apple’s broader commitment to health and wellness, and they could be beneficial for certain individuals. The hearing test feature allows users to assess their hearing directly from their iPhone, and based on the results, the AirPods can adjust sound levels to compensate for mild to moderate hearing loss.
This technology offers a more accessible and affordable solution for individuals who may have some degree of hearing loss but haven’t sought professional help. The price point of around $249 makes these earbuds significantly cheaper than traditional hearing aids.
One of the most appealing aspects of the AirPods Pro 2 is their potential to reduce the stigma associated with wearing hearing aids. Traditionally, hearing aids have carried a certain level of embarrassment or discomfort for many people, particularly younger adults and teens. But millions of people already use AirPods every day, and incorporating hearing aid functionality into a device that looks and feels like regular earbuds could make it easier for individuals to embrace the help they need without feeling self-conscious.
Additionally, the AirPods’ built-in hearing test could encourage people who might not have otherwise considered their hearing health to take action. According to the National Council on Aging, hearing loss affects more than 60 million Americans over the age of 12, yet only a small percentage of them actually wear hearing aids. Apple’s accessibility and innovative design could bring hearing health into the mainstream conversation, which is a step in the right direction.
As much as I love my AirPods, it’s important to remember that they are not designed to replace traditional hearing aids — especially for those with more significant hearing needs. Here’s why:
1. Limited Battery Life
The AirPods Pro 2 have a battery life of only 4-6 hours when used as hearing aids, compared to prescription hearing aids, which can last days or even weeks on a single charge. This means the AirPods will need to be recharged throughout the day, making them less practical for those who need all-day hearing support.
2. Lack of Professional Customization
One of the greatest advantages of prescription hearing aids is the ability to customize them to each patient’s unique needs and hearing profile. As an audiologist, I work closely with patients to adjust their hearing aids, ensuring they deliver optimal sound quality and fit comfortably. The AirPods Pro 2, while adjustable, don’t offer the same level of fine-tuning that a professionally fitted hearing aid does. Personalized care is crucial for addressing the complexity of hearing loss, which varies greatly from person to person.
3. No Solution for Severe Hearing Loss
The AirPods Pro 2 are designed for individuals with self-identified mild to moderate hearing loss. For those with more severe hearing loss, these earbuds simply won’t cut it. In such cases, prescription hearing aids that offer more advanced amplification and sound processing are essential. Additionally, patients with more significant hearing loss benefit from ongoing support from their audiologist, something an earbud can’t provide.
4. Limited Features Compared to Prescription Hearing Aids
While the AirPods Pro 2 offer basic hearing aid functionality, they don’t come close to the full range of features available in modern hearing aids. Advanced hearing aids offer sophisticated sound processing, background noise reduction, feedback management, and Bluetooth connectivity, all tailored to a patient’s specific needs. In contrast, the AirPods’ hearing aid capabilities are more general and may not provide the same level of clarity or comfort.
When considering hearing aids — whether OTC or prescription — it’s important to recognize the critical role audiologists play in the process. Hearing loss is complex, and while some individuals may be able to self-manage mild issues with OTC devices, most patients benefit from the professional evaluation, fitting, and ongoing support that audiologists provide.
During an initial evaluation, we don’t just assess the severity of hearing loss. We take into account factors like the patient’s lifestyle, environment, and communication needs to recommend the most appropriate hearing solution. The care doesn’t stop after the device is fitted; hearing aids often require follow-up adjustments, maintenance, and troubleshooting to ensure they continue to work effectively.
In contrast, OTC devices like the AirPods Pro 2 may provide some immediate relief, but they don’t come with the long-term care and support that is crucial for managing hearing loss effectively.
Unlike prescription hearing aids, AirPods Pro 2 can’t be programmed by an audiologist to match an individual's specific hearing loss. Real ear measurements, which ensure that hearing aids are precisely tuned to a person's unique ear anatomy and hearing needs, are crucial for providing the most accurate and effective hearing experience.
It’s a bit like buying reading glasses from the drugstore — they might help in a pinch, but they’re no substitute for an eye exam and prescription lenses tailored to your exact needs.
There’s no doubt that Apple’s new AirPods Pro 2 are an exciting development in the world of hearing health. For individuals with mild hearing loss who are looking for a convenient and discreet solution, these earbuds could be a great starting point. They also have the potential to reduce the stigma associated with hearing loss and bring more awareness to the importance of hearing health.
However, for those in need of comprehensive hearing solutions, prescription hearing aids remain, by far, the superior option. As much as I love Apple products (and I really do), the AirPods Pro 2 simply can’t replace the advanced technology and personalized care that our audiologists and providers offer.
If you’re experiencing hearing loss, the best course of action is still to schedule a professional hearing evaluation. We’re here to help you find the solution that works best for your unique situation — and to provide ongoing support for all your hearing health needs.
Ready to learn more? If you or someone you know is experiencing hearing loss, interested in knowing the differences between OTC and prescription hearing aids, or would like to know more about the newest hearing aid technologies, feel free to schedule a consultation or hearing test with an expert provider near you in Maryland, Virginia, Pennsylvania, or New Jersey. We look forward to hearing from you!
