Apple Gadgets Health Innovation News

Apple transforms AirPods Pro 2 into low-cost hearing aids

Kurt Knutsson51231 views

 

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Using AirPods with Android devices

While AirPods are designed to work seamlessly with Apple devices, they can also be used with Android smartphones and PCs. However, some features like automatic ear detection and customizable controls may not be available on Android devices. It’s worth noting that while AirPods can be used with Android devices, the new hearing aid feature mentioned earlier in this article is currently exclusive to Apple devices and requires iOS 18.

 

FDA cautions: OTC hearing aids are not a substitute for professional care

Now, the FDA has one word of caution. Over-the-counter hearing aids are not a replacement for professional medical evaluations or prescription hearing aids. While OTC hearing aids provide increased accessibility for adults with perceived mild to moderate hearing loss, they have limitations and are not suitable for everyone with hearing impairment. The FDA emphasizes that OTC hearing aids are intended only for adults with perceived mild to moderate hearing loss, not for children or those with more severe hearing loss. For individuals with more significant hearing difficulties or complex hearing needs, prescription hearing aids fitted by hearing health professionals remain the recommended option.

Kurt’s key takeaway

Would you consider using AirPods as a hearing aid if you have mild to moderate hearing loss? Let us know in the comments below.

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51 comments

Carla W. September 17, 2024 - 3:57 am
I will order them as soon as they roll out! My only concern, will they stay in my ears while I’m riding my horse?
Kurt Knutsson September 17, 2024 - 2:15 pm
Hi Carla, you can actually get them now (here). Although, using AirPods 2 while riding a horse might not be the best idea. Some users have reported issues with the AirPods changing songs due to the movement while riding. Additionally, wearing earbuds while riding can be risky as it may block out important sounds around you, such as approaching traffic or other riders. If you still want to listen to music while riding, you might consider using a portable Bluetooth speaker that can clip onto your jacket. This way, you can enjoy your music without compromising your awareness of your surroundings.
Bushy September 17, 2024 - 4:02 am
Thank you CG I may try these but wonder if they work for people with hearing loss due to background noise?
Dan M September 17, 2024 - 4:03 am
I now have expensive hearing aids and air pods. I use the AirPods to listen to music while working in the wood shop and cutting the grass, etc. the noise canceling is astounding. They are more comfortable than my hearing aids and have better connectivity to my iPhone. I will definitely be giving this option a try
James G. September 17, 2024 - 4:06 am
My wife now wears hearing aid that cost $4,000 several years ago & I’m probably needing them but not sure I want to spend the money for them. These AirPods through our phones may be the way to go, I’ll be watching
Hommie H. September 17, 2024 - 4:07 am
I will definitely try the hearing aid app
Tina S. September 17, 2024 - 4:12 am
YES, I would and hopefully I am. Thank you for the information! Can I buy a pair now and then update them when the update comes out?
Kurt Knutsson September 17, 2024 - 2:11 pm
Hi Tina, yes you can buy them now (here) and the update will then apply to them when it comes out.
Sharon D. September 17, 2024 - 4:15 am
I am 85 and I would try them
Mark O. September 17, 2024 - 4:21 am
Yes, yes, yes I would definitely use the ear pods at $250 as a hearing aid versus $1000s for a hearing aid. I’ve been to a specialist and been tested for an expensive hearing aid. Turned me off. Been hounded ever since to buy. I’ve been waiting for this for years. Thank you Apple.
Bruce P September 17, 2024 - 5:11 am
Yes, absolutely I would I had a hearing test by an audiologist last year and was told I had moderate hearing loss, however I cannot afford $6,000 for traditional hearing aids
Derek B. September 17, 2024 - 5:21 am
possibly
Ann M September 17, 2024 - 5:26 am
My husband has 2 sets of hearing aides. 1 custom in-ear mold and the other over the ear. Neither work well. Especially in a group, restaurant, out of doors. Both are uncomfortable with the in-ear molds leading to frequent ear canal infections. I think I might buy these when they are available to see if they can help him.
Lindsay B September 17, 2024 - 5:26 am
Yes I would consider using them with the hearing aid feature.
Larry F September 17, 2024 - 5:28 am
I just spent $3800.00 for hearing aids. Could have bought a new phone and air buds for half. I am always a day late.
Enrique S. September 17, 2024 - 5:32 am
yes I will
Dean A. September 17, 2024 - 5:39 am
I love the sound of Apple earbuds but the one design feature doesn’t allow them to stay in my ears. This must be considered. All ear openings are different.
Michael C. Sr September 17, 2024 - 6:00 am
Yes I would just have one question, do you have to have a iPhone 16 ? Thank You
Kurt Knutsson September 17, 2024 - 7:12 pm
Hi Michael. The AirPods Pro 2, are compatible with both the iPhone 15 and iPhone 16. The key requirement is that your iPhone should be running iOS 18 or later to access the new hearing aid features.
Lydia September 17, 2024 - 6:04 am
Do the Apple hearing pods only go with IPhone 16? I have I phone 15. Thank you
Kurt Knutsson September 17, 2024 - 7:10 pm
Hi Lydia. No, the Apple hearing pods, specifically the AirPods Pro 2, are compatible with both the iPhone 15 and iPhone 16. The key requirement is that your iPhone should be running iOS 18 or later to access the new hearing aid features. So, you should be able to use all the features of the AirPods Pro 2 with your iPhone 15 without any issues.
Richard A. September 17, 2024 - 6:25 am
I have installed ISO18 and hopefully I can figure out how to make my AirBud Pro 2 work as a hearing aid. I have mid hearing loss but refused to get hearing aid, however I wear my AirBuds all day long, so it will be great to use them as a hearing aid.
Romaine September 17, 2024 - 6:30 am
Yes, I would definitely use. Question, will they work with android phones?
Kurt Knutsson September 17, 2024 - 2:06 pm
Hi Romaine, while you can use Apple AirPods 2 (here) on an Android, the hearing aid feature is specifically designed to work with iOS 18. This feature, known as the Hearing Aid Feature (HAF), requires an iOS device (like an iPhone or iPad) to set up and customize the hearing aid settings.
Jimmy C. September 17, 2024 - 6:32 am
I will try it.
mike September 17, 2024 - 6:53 am
I now use hearing aid for mild hearing loss and I have ordered the ipods pro2 and expect them to be better we will see!
Fredrick D September 17, 2024 - 6:53 am
Yes I would try hearing pods
April September 17, 2024 - 7:19 am
Yes, I would
Bruce A. September 17, 2024 - 7:46 am
Sounds like a good alternative, however, my bluetooth hearing aids work for me Would have to see user reviews to make a comparison and self try
David L H. September 17, 2024 - 8:09 am
I am excited yo hear Apple will offer an upgrade for a hearing loss option added to the Airpod Pro. The sooner the better. I'll apply as soon as it's available!
Robert B. September 17, 2024 - 8:23 am
Will Airpods Pro 2 work with Android phones, or would I have to also have to purchase an iPhone? I am in my 70's with mild hearing loss, and am definitely interested.
Kurt Knutsson September 17, 2024 - 9:39 am
Hi Robert, to clarify, while you can use Apple AirPods 2 (here) on an Android, the hearing aid feature is specifically designed to work with iOS 18. This feature, known as the Hearing Aid Feature (HAF), requires an iOS device (like an iPhone or iPad) to set up and customize the hearing aid settings.
Pam D. September 17, 2024 - 8:34 am
I have moderate hearing loss and these earbuds would hep and not break the bank. Kurt I would give these a try. I gain a lot of information from your newsletter. I first saw you a few years back on Fox Business and immediately signed up. Thank you, Pam
Dan September 17, 2024 - 8:43 am
If they work, this will be fantastic news to many who want to avoid the stigma of hearing aids so as not to appear "old"
Linda September 17, 2024 - 9:07 am
This is a fabulous addition to the hearing options. My husband needs them but I feel vanity holds him back. If it looks like earbuds for his telephone then he may be more open to getting them. The cost has been a real roadblock too. These are more affordable and make a truely great option that’s affordable.
Susan L. September 17, 2024 - 9:09 am
Waiting anxiously for the new Airpod Pro 2! Thanks Kurt for all the valuable information that you provide!
Kurt Knutsson September 17, 2024 - 9:31 am
Hi Susan, to clarify, while you can use Apple AirPods 2 (here) on an Android, the hearing aid feature is specifically designed to work with iOS 18. This feature, known as the Hearing Aid Feature (HAF), requires an iOS device (like an iPhone or iPad) to set up and customize the hearing aid settings.
Roseanna R. September 17, 2024 - 9:31 am
I would gladly wear these rather than the old style hearing aid. i have an android phone, can i use these earbuds without buying the apple phone?
Kurt Knutsson September 17, 2024 - 9:44 am
Hi Roseanna, to clarify, while you can use Apple AirPods 2 (here) on an Android, the hearing aid feature is specifically designed to work with iOS 18. This feature, known as the Hearing Aid Feature (HAF), requires an iOS device (like an iPhone or iPad) to set up and customize the hearing aid settings.
JD September 17, 2024 - 2:02 pm
from apple website: New hearing health features will be available this fall for AirPods Pro 2 customers in a free software update when paired with iPhone or iPad running iOS 18 or iPadOS 18.
Joan September 17, 2024 - 10:08 am
Yes I would.. I currently have hearing aids.. I think it would be interesting for the use of the AirPods.
Mike B September 17, 2024 - 10:08 am
I have moderate hearing loss and have been using behind the ear hearing aids for several years. I would be very interested in trying out this airpod/iphone hearing aid product/application.
Susan W. September 17, 2024 - 11:03 am
I I would definitely order these earbuds. My husband has mild hearing loss. These would be perfect. Can we pre-order these now?
Kurt Knutsson September 17, 2024 - 11:09 am
Hi Susan, to clarify, while you can use Apple AirPods 2 (here) the hearing aid feature is specifically designed to work with iOS 18. This feature, known as the Hearing Aid Feature (HAF), requires an iOS device (like an iPhone or iPad) to set up and customize the hearing aid settings.
Michael W. September 17, 2024 - 11:07 am
I purchased the airpods pro 2nd generation today and cannot wait to try them as hearing aids and also use them to listen to my tv. My wife wants them also.
Jim Y September 17, 2024 - 11:42 am
Just a question for you. I have an Air Pod Pro that I have had for a while. I tried to recharge the battery a couple times but I'm getting nothing, zero. The battery is fully discharged and there is no light. Is there any way to resurrect them? Thanks. I'm a big fan and subscribe to email posts. Keep up the good work.
Kurt Knutsson September 17, 2024 - 12:00 pm
Hi Jim, here are a few steps you can try to troubleshoot and potentially fix the issue: 1) Check the Charging Cable and Adapter: Ensure that the Lightning to USB cable is firmly plugged into the charging case and the USB power adapter. Also, make sure the power adapter is correctly plugged into a power outlet. 2) Clean the Charging Contacts: Sometimes, dirt or debris can prevent proper charging. Use a soft, dry, lint-free cloth to clean the metal contacts inside the case and on the AirPods themselves. 3) Reset Your AirPods Pro: Press and hold the button on the back of the charging case until the light flashes amber, then white. This will reset your AirPods and might resolve the charging issue. 4) Try a Different Charging Method: If you have a wireless charging case, try using a Qi-compatible charger. Place the case with the status light facing up and ensure it is properly positioned on the charger. 4) Leave Them to Charge Overnight: Sometimes, leaving the AirPods in the case to charge overnight can help revive a fully discharged battery. If none of these steps work, it might be time to contact Apple Support for further assistance. They can help diagnose the issue and provide repair or replacement options if necessary.
Barbara A. H. September 17, 2024 - 11:49 am
Absolutely. My hearing difficulty is with the lower sounds. I have been tested, and my ENT said just to tell friends and family to speak up, as Medicare does not cover hearing aids. Even OTC hearing aids cost over $1,000.
CAROLYN P. September 17, 2024 - 12:50 pm
The new ipods do interest me, but I have problems with getting ipods to stay in my ears. I have very small ear openings. Please advise what I could do to be able to use the new ipods
Kathy September 17, 2024 - 1:08 pm
I work in an OR and do orthopedics. I have to wear helmet with a fan in it . It is very difficult to hear the surgeon at times especially when saws or drills are being used. I am excited about this new technology and am willing to give it a try .
Fred P September 17, 2024 - 6:26 pm
Yes , I would!
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