Apple AirPods Pro 2 Hearing Aid Functionality: Truth vs. Hype
Apple claims the AirPods Pro 2’s possesses “clinical-grade hearing aid” capabilities. While it’s a clever bit of marketing, “clinical grade” is not approved by the FDA or used in audiology. The Air Pods Pro 2 amplification system would correctly be called an “over-the-counter” hearing aid. OTC hearing aids are meant to increase the accessibility of amplification to millions of people with untreated hearing loss. The problem is that hearing loss is a complex issue that is not easily fixed with a “one-size-fits-all” approach since no two brains are the same.
As we said, technically, the AirPods Pro 2 falls under the category of over-the-counter hearing aids, which have been available since late 2022, with brands like Sony also entering this space. Still, Apple’s ability to integrate these features into a beloved product like the AirPods Pro gives them a clear advantage in awareness and adoption.
How Do They Compare to Prescription Hearing Aids?
Let’s be clear: AirPods Pro 2 are not designed to replace prescription hearing aids. At best, they offer an entry point for individuals curious about amplification or exploring solutions for mild hearing loss. But they don’t match the sophistication, personalization, or adaptability of prescription hearing aids.
Prescription devices are carefully calibrated to an individual’s unique hearing profile and ear canal anatomy. Audiologists fine-tune these devices for specific frequencies, environments, and user lifestyles. Whether you’re at a quiet library, a bustling restaurant, or an outdoor concert, prescription hearing aids can adapt to provide clarity, reduce background noise, and ensure a rich, natural listening experience. The latest prescription hearing aids use advanced features like powerful directional microphones, 4-D sensors, and deep neural networks built into their digital chips to predict your hearing needs in complex listening environments.
OTC devices like the AirPods Pro 2 provide generalized amplification rather than personalized hearing care. While they may enhance sound, they lack the precision, clarity, and sound quality that properly adjusted prescription hearing aids offer, especially in challenging listening environments. The difference isn’t just louder sound—it’s tailored sound with prescription hearing devices that offer clearer and more comfortable sound, helping users reengage with the world around them.
Practical Limitations
Using AirPods Pro 2 as a hearing aid also presents some practical challenges. While they integrate seamlessly with Apple’s ecosystem, factors like battery life, ear canal fit, and the lack of frequency-specific compression technology programmed by a professional could limit their effectiveness for any degree of hearing loss.
Some practical issues make using AirPods Pro 2 as hearing aids somewhat tricky, particularly concerning comfort.
Comfort is a significant issue with using AirPods as hearing aids because, unlike prescription hearing aids, AirPods weren’t designed to be worn all day. Prescription hearing devices uniquely fit each ear and often require a custom mold to fit comfortably in or around the ear for prolonged use without causing irritation or pressure points. Prescription hearing devices are designed to be lightweight, breathable, and specifically engineered for stability and comfort, even during extended wear.
On the other hand, AirPods are primarily designed for shorter listening sessions, like phone calls or music streaming, rather than continuous all-day use. Their weight and fit in the outer ear canal can lead to discomfort over time, especially if worn for hours. This pressure can cause soreness or fatigue in the ear, making it difficult for someone who relies on them for amplification to keep them in throughout a full day. For anyone with hearing loss who might need sound support from morning until evening, comfort is crucial—it’s hard to benefit from a device you don’t want to keep wearing!
Prescription hearing aids solve this problem by distributing weight differently and using softer materials tailored to an individual’s ear shape. This ensures they can be worn comfortably for long periods without causing strain.
The main reason the comfort is so crucial with amplification is that consistent daily input to the brain is critical to the successful use of hearing devices. People who only wear their hearing aids occasionally or when they “think” they need them are the ones who struggle the most. They often report that hearing aids just don’t work for them. Like anything new, the brain must adjust to new input, such as high-frequency sounds needed for speech clarity, and the best way to achieve this is with daily, full-time use of prescription hearing devices. This way, the brain doesn’t get confused by how it is supposed to process sounds – with or without amplification. This is like adapting to a new eyeglass prescription – it may take a few days to a few weeks for the brain to adjust to the new input, especially if a stronger prescription is needed.
Battery Life
Battery life is crucial for hearing aids because many people who rely on them need consistent, all-day support to maintain clear communication and situational awareness. A six-hour battery life, like the AirPods Pro 2, may work for occasional listening sessions, but it falls short for someone who needs amplification from morning until night. Prescription hearing aids are designed with a longer battery life, lasting a whole day to accommodate users’ needs without requiring frequent recharging or battery changes.
For someone using AirPods Pro 2 as a hearing aid substitute, recharging at midday could be inconvenient, disruptive, and potentially isolating. Imagine being in the middle of a meaningful conversation or a social gathering, only to have your AirPods run out of power. This disruption could lead to missed conversations at critical moments, undermining the purpose of using a hearing device in the first place.
Prescription hearing aids address this need by prioritizing battery efficiency and longevity. Some models even have rechargeable batteries designed for 24-hour use, while others use disposable batteries that can last several days. This way, users can confidently go about their day, knowing they won’t unexpectedly lose hearing support when needed.
Visibility
Visibility is another factor; having AirPods in your ears while trying to participate in a conversation might leave others wondering if you’re actually listening or just tuning into your favorite playlist. The social aspect is challenging, too, since most people aren’t exactly excited to admit they have hearing loss, let alone explain they’re using AirPods as hearing aids.
Are the AirPods Pro 2 a hearing care revolution or just clever marketing?
Apple deserves immense credit for raising awareness about hearing health and bringing millions of users meaningful conversations about hearing loss, testing, and noise exposure. The integration of these features into their ecosystem is impressive. The AirPods Pro 2 can be a helpful stepping stone for those exploring amplification for the first time. They offer a glimpse into the possibilities of actual hearing solutions.
That said, while the AirPods Pro 2 might be fun to try out and could provide some amplification, they aren’t designed to be a long-term solution for those needing more substantial hearing support. If you find them helpful, that’s a great sign—consider testing out professionally fitted, prescription hearing aids, which an audiologist can precisely adjust to match your specific hearing profile and ear anatomy. Audiologists tailor these devices to suit your hearing profile and lifestyle, ensuring comfort, clarity, and connection in any environment.
Next Steps:
If you’re curious about the AirPods Pro 2, give them a try and explore the hearing features in Apple’s Health App. They might be helpful for mild hearing concerns or occasional amplification needs. Think of them as your first pair of “readers” from the pharmacy to clear up the fine print.
The best next step for those experiencing persistent hearing challenges is to consult an audiologist. A comprehensive hearing evaluation by a licensed audiologist will ensure you find a solution tailored to your needs.
Ultimately, Apple is pushing the boundaries of what everyday tech can do, and that’s exciting for the future of hearing health. But remember that hearing is as unique as a fingerprint, and solutions should be just as personalized. If you would like to learn more about the benefits of prescription hearing aids, give us a call.