Apple (AirPods Pro)

The world's most popular earbuds — now FDA-cleared OTC hearing aids.

In September 2024, Apple received FDA clearance to add Hearing Aid functionality to AirPods Pro 2 via a software update. This made AirPods Pro 2 the first mainstream consumer earbuds to function as FDA-cleared OTC hearing aids — a landmark moment for the hearing health industry. The feature is available to users in the U.S. with mild to moderate hearing loss and is activated through the Health app after a brief hearing test. Apple's entry into the hearing aid space dramatically lowered the cost and stigma barrier for millions of people.

Visit Apple (AirPods Pro).com

Apple hearing technology: Hearing Aid Mode & Personalized Volume

Apple's hearing health features are built into AirPods Pro 2 hardware and activated via iOS software. The Hearing Aid feature uses the AirPods' built-in microphones and Apple's H2 chip to amplify and process sound in real time, tuned to the user's individual hearing profile from an in-app hearing test. Additional features include Hearing Check (a clinical-grade hearing test), Hearing Protection (real-time loud environment monitoring), and Live Listen (using iPhone as a remote microphone).

FDA-cleared OTC Hearing Aid Mode — activated via iOS 18 Health app
Personalized hearing profile from a 5-minute in-app hearing test
H2 chip real-time audio processing with low latency
Active Noise Cancellation and Transparency Mode
Hearing Check — clinical-grade hearing test built into Health app
Hearing Protection — monitors and limits loud sound exposure
Live Listen — use iPhone as a remote directional microphone
Conversation Boost — enhanced focus on voices in front of you
Seamless integration with iPhone, iPad, Mac, and Apple Watch

Models & pricing

AirPods Pro 2 (with Hearing Aid feature)

In-ear (IEM) — earbud style

OTC$249/pair

FDA-cleared OTC hearing aid
Active Noise Cancellation
Transparency Mode
Hearing Check
Hearing Protection
USB-C charging case
MagSafe compatible

Pros & cons

Strengths

+Dramatically lower cost than traditional OTC hearing aids ($249 vs. $500–$1,500)
+Device most people already own — no new hardware required for existing AirPods Pro 2 users
+FDA-cleared — clinically validated for mild to moderate hearing loss
+Seamless Apple ecosystem integration (iPhone, Apple Watch, Mac)
+Hearing Check provides a clinical-grade hearing test at home
+Reduces stigma — looks like regular earbuds, not hearing aids
+Hearing Protection and noise monitoring features included
+Regular software updates improve functionality over time

Limitations

−iPhone / iOS only — no Android support
−Earbud form factor — not suitable for all-day wear like traditional hearing aids
−Battery life ~6 hours (case extends to 30 hours) — traditional aids last longer per charge
−Not suitable for moderate-severe or severe hearing loss
−No telecoil (T-coil) — not compatible with hearing loop systems
−No custom ear mold — fit may not suit all ear shapes
−Hearing Aid Mode requires iOS 18 and AirPods Pro 2 specifically

The bottom line

Apple's AirPods Pro 2 Hearing Aid feature is a genuine breakthrough for accessibility and affordability. For iPhone users with mild to moderate hearing loss who already own AirPods Pro 2, it's a no-cost upgrade that delivers real hearing aid functionality. For those buying new, $249 is a fraction of traditional OTC hearing aid prices. The main limitations are the iOS-only requirement and earbud form factor — but for the right user, this is the most convenient and affordable OTC option available.

Best for: iPhone users with mild to moderate hearing loss; existing AirPods Pro 2 owners; people seeking a discreet, low-cost entry point into hearing assistance

Apple hearing aids — AirPods Pro hearing features