What OTC hearing aid apps do

A well-designed OTC hearing aid app handles several critical functions:

• In-app hearing test: Guides you through a pure-tone screening to establish your hearing profile
• Automatic fitting: Programs the hearing aid based on your test results
• Volume control: Adjusts overall amplification level
• Sound customization: Adjusts bass, treble, and mid-range balance
• Listening programs: Switches between presets for different environments (quiet, restaurant, outdoors, streaming)
• Noise reduction control: Adjusts how aggressively background noise is suppressed
• Feedback management: Controls whistling/feedback
• Battery status: Shows remaining battery life
• Bluetooth management: Pairs and manages audio streaming sources
• Remote support: Some apps connect you to audiologists for remote adjustments

App-by-app breakdown

Sony Hearing Control app (CRE series)

Widely regarded as the best OTC hearing aid app. The hearing test is validated and produces accurate results. The fitting algorithm is the same one studied in the 2023 JAMA trial. The interface is clean and intuitive, with clear explanations at each step. Fine-tuning controls are well-organized. Available on iOS and Android.

Jabra Sound+ app (Enhance series)

Polished and feature-rich. The self-fitting process is guided and clear. Unique feature: optional remote audiologist support through the app (additional cost). The "MySound" personalization feature allows detailed customization. Strong Bluetooth management. Available on iOS and Android.

Lexie app (B2 series)

Clean interface with a focus on simplicity. The subscription model includes access to hearing specialists through the app. Good for users who want professional support without a clinic visit. Fine-tuning options are somewhat limited compared to Sony and Jabra.

Eargo app

Simpler than competitors — intentionally designed for users less comfortable with technology. The fitting process is guided by phone support as much as the app itself. Limited fine-tuning options, but the simplicity is a feature for the target audience.

Audien app

Basic functionality — volume control and program switching. No in-app hearing test or automatic fitting. Appropriate for the budget price point but significantly less capable than the apps above.

What makes a great hearing aid app

• Validated hearing test: The in-app test should be clinically validated, not just a rough screening
• Clear fitting algorithm: The app should explain what it is doing and why
• Granular fine-tuning: Frequency-specific adjustments are more useful than simple bass/treble sliders
• Situation-specific programs: At minimum: quiet, noise, and streaming
• Accessibility: Large text, high contrast, simple navigation — hearing loss often correlates with age
• Stability: Crashes or Bluetooth disconnections during fitting are frustrating and common in lower-quality apps
• Support integration: In-app access to customer support or audiologists is a significant differentiator

Do you need a smartphone to use OTC hearing aids?

For self-fitting OTC aids: yes, a smartphone is required for the initial fitting and ongoing adjustments. Most apps require iOS 14+ or Android 8+.

For preset-program OTC aids (like Audien): no smartphone is needed. These devices have physical controls for volume and program selection. They are a better option for users without smartphones or who are not comfortable with apps.

Some OTC aids also offer a physical remote control as an alternative to the app — useful for users who want app-quality fitting but prefer not to use a phone for daily adjustments.