September 12, 2024, the FDA authorized its first over-the-counter (OTC) hearing aid software, intended to be used in compatible versions of the Apple AirPods Pro wireless headphones.

Just 1 month later, Apple made this revolutionary hearing update available to the public as a free software update on the AirPods Pros 2, meaning users who already own this device get free access to an FDA-approved hearing device at no extra cost.

This update pushed by Apple makes OTC hearing aids immediately accessible to millions of people, opening the door to better hearing as a community. It has also opened the door to a host of questions, ranging from what the features are, how they stack up against traditional hearing aids, and who OTC options are best suited for. Today, we are here to offer some clarity to help you and your loved ones make an educated decision about your hearing health.

Apple AirPods Pro 2 Hearing Features

Currently, the AirPods Pro 2nd generation is the only model compatible with Apple’s hearing aid software. These earbuds are uniquely equipped with active noise cancellation and an in-ear seal, which are critical for effective hearing evaluation and sound enhancement.

Here’s a quick overview of the key features offered by this update:

• Noise Cancellation: Remove up to 2x more background noise
• Adaptive Audio: Noise control adapts to your environment
• Adaptive EQ: Tailored listening based on the fit of your headphones
• Conversation Boost: Better clarity for voices in front of you
• Background Sounds: Mask unwanted noise with calming sounds
• Headphone Audio Levels: Limit & track how long you listen to loud audio

iPhone Hearing Tests

Apple tackles hearing loss awareness with new, accessible hearing testing. Similar to our 3-minute online hearing screening, Apple now offers an interactive iPhone hearing test that evaluates your hearing in just about 5 minutes using pure-tone audiometry built on advanced acoustic science.

Apple’s hearing screening includes sophisticated surrounding calibrations, and assessing background noise before beginning. Throughout the hearing test, you will be prompted with helpful animations, tap-back effects, and progress indicators for an accurate test that is both quick and easy.

After completion, Apple provides you with immediate, easy-to-understand results and insights into your hearing. If you have perceived hearing loss, you will be prompted to set up the Hearing Aid feature, providing you with a personalized hearing profile that is quick and easy to set up.

AirPods Pro 2 vs Traditional Hearing Aids

Apple is shaking up the hearing space as we know it, but how do they stack up against your traditional hearing aids? Let’s take a closer look at some key differences:

• Cost: Usually, hearing aids run between $1,250 and $2,750 per device, compared to the base retail price of AirPods Pro 2 at $250 for a pair.
• Battery Life: Hearing aids, on average, have a battery life that lasts 3-20 days of standard use, whereas AirPods Pro 2 typically lasts about 6 hours on a single charge.
• Aesthetics: Traditional hearing aids come in a variety of styles and colors, including ones that are so discrete you can barely see someone wearing them. AirPods are much more visible, and currently only come in white, calling more attention to them.
• Functionality: AirPods Pro 2 offers a boost for conversations happening in front of you, but what about everywhere else? Hearing aids have progressed in technology to allow options on the market to boost sounds happening all around you.
• Customization: Traditional hearing aids can be customized to suit the user's needs exactly, including a tailored hearing aid fitting, which AirPods Pro 2 cannot compete with at present.
• Hearing Loss Severity: AirPods Pro 2 are best suited for those with mild to moderate hearing loss, while traditional hearing aids can service all degrees of hearing.

When to Consult a Professional

This advancement in OTC hearing aids does not mean audiologists are out of the picture. The truth is OTC hearing aids are not intended for everyone. Before continued use, we highly recommend gaining a baseline hearing examination to know the severity of your hearing loss so we can help you make an educated decision about your hearing.

We do not recommend individuals with any of the following characteristics use over-the-counter hearing aids:

• Sudden hearing loss
• Active drainage/loss
• Tinnitus & tinnitus treatment
• Dizziness
• Wax or foreign body in the ear
• Ear infections
• Children under the age of 18
• Technologically challenged
• Preference for personal evaluation

Our expert team at Hearing Health Solutions can help you understand the benefits and limitations of new technologies like the AirPods Pro 2, and determine the best hearing solution for your unique needs. Contact us today for a professional hearing evaluation and learn more about our six convenient locations across Columbus, Dublin, Grove City, Westerville, and Delaware.