How to use AirPods as hearing aids

In this article, we will provide a step-by-step guide on how to turn your AirPods Pro 2 into basic “hearing aids.”

Key Takeaways:

• AirPods won’t fully replace hearing aids, but for those with mild hearing loss or who need situational amplification.
• While you can access AirPods' hearing aid-like functionality now using the steps below, it will become much easier to set up after Apple's fall 2024 software update.
• Until then, follow this guide to use AirPods' hearing aid features.

AirPods Pro 2 offer a unique feature that allows them to function as entry-level hearing aids, but it's important to note that this functionality is best suited for individuals with mild to moderate hearing loss. While they provide some amplification and clarity, they are not a replacement for medical hearing aids, especially for those with more severe hearing impairments. If you're looking for a convenient and tech-savvy way to boost your hearing in specific situations, AirPods Pro 2 could be a good starting point.

How to Turn Your AirPods Pro 2 into Entry-Level Hearing Aids

While all AirPods Pro 2 come with built-in Transparency Mode, the default amplification is low and not tailored to your specific hearing needs. However, by following a few simple steps, you can unlock and customize the hearing aid-like functionality to suit your mild hearing loss.

Step 1: Take a Hearing Test and Upload Your Audiogram

Hearing loss is unique to every individual. AirPods can adjust for this in both streaming and Transparency Modes—but first, you'll need to take a hearing test and sync the audiogram results with Apple Health.

We recommend using the Mimi app for this. After taking the test, sync your audiogram results with Apple Health.

Step 2: Update Audio Accessibility Settings

Once your audiogram is synced, it’s time to customize your AirPods Pro 2 to match your specific hearing profile.

• Open Settings on your iPhone.
• Go to Accessibility > AirPods > Audio Accessibility Settings.
• Select Headphone Accommodations > Tune Audio for Audiogram.

Congrats! Your AirPods Pro 2 will now adjust the audio in both Transparency and streaming modes to suit your hearing loss.

Step 3: Increase Transparency Mode Volume

Transparency Mode lets you hear external sounds, but out of the box, the volume may not be sufficient for those with hearing loss. Adjusting your phone's volume won’t change the Transparency Mode volume—you’ll need to fine-tune it manually.

• Open Settings > Accessibility > Audio/Visual > Headphone Accommodations.
• Scroll down and tap Transparency Mode.
• Adjust the volume to your preference. You can also balance the volume between your left and right ears if your hearing differs on each side.
• Optionally, enable Conversation Boost to focus on the voice of the person in front of you. Keep in mind that this may slightly limit the openness of the surrounding soundscape.

Experiment with these settings to find a balance that works for you. You can always return to the settings for further adjustments.

That’s it! Your AirPods Pro 2 are now functioning as basic hearing aids.

Limitations of Using AirPods as Hearing Aids

While AirPods Pro 2 can provide some hearing assistance, there are a few limitations to keep in mind:

• Form Factor and Comfort: AirPods are bulkier and less comfortable for extended wear compared to traditional hearing aids. AirPods can be comfortable worn while working or exercising for a few hours, but not for an entire day. Hearing aids, on the other hand, are designed for long-term use and are much lighter and less intrusive.
• Social Perception: Wearing AirPods in public can create confusion. When using the Transparency Mode to hear people nearby, you could sense others wondering whether you were listening to music or paying attention to the conversation. This could be even trickier in social or work settings where clear communication is important.
• Amplification: Even at the highest Transparency Mode volume, AirPods Pro 2 may not offer enough amplification for those with moderate to severe hearing loss. If your hearing loss is more than mild, you may find that AirPods fall short of your amplification needs.

Can AirPods Pro 2 Replace Hearing Aids?

After comparing the AirPods Pro 2 with prescription hearing aids side-by-side, you can find that:

• Volume: AirPods are useful, but only if you turn Transparency Mode all the way up. Even then, it feels like you could use a little more amplification.
• Clarity: The sound quality is impressive. AirPods Pro 2 did a great job amplifying voices and reducing background noise. The speech clarity and noise reduction were comparable to premium hearing aids.
• Comfort: While AirPods are fine for a few hours, they aren’t comfortable enough for all-day wear.
• Form Factor: AirPods Pro 2 are nice to use for travel due to their noise-canceling capabilities, but not for social gatherings. The potential for social confusion is too high.

Best OTC hearing aids recommendation

For those seeking over-the-counter (OTC) hearing aids that are comfortable for extended wear, highly discreet, and priced similarly to AirPods Pro, the Sony CRE-C20 OTC hearing aids are an excellent option. Designed with long-term use in mind, these hearing aids offer a lightweight and nearly invisible fit, making them ideal for daily wear without the bulk or social confusion that can come with earbuds. Priced competitively, they provide advanced sound enhancement tailored to your hearing profile, all while maintaining a sleek design that makes them one of the most discreet options available.

Try the Sony CRE-C20 OTC hearing aids

Resources

Learn everything you need to know about hearing aids and hearing loss.