Apple’s AirPods Pro 2 Set to Revolutionize Hearing Aid Technology with FDA-Approved Features

Apple’s AirPods Pro 2 are poised to reshape the hearing aid market with FDA-approved software that allows the device to function as an over-the-counter (OTC) clinical hearing aid. This groundbreaking move, announced during Apple’s September 9 event, marks a major leap in both hearing aid technology and accessibility.

Just days after Apple’s announcement, the FDA approved the Hearing Aid Function (HAF), which will be activated through an upcoming iOS 18.1 update expected to roll out in late October. Once live, this new feature will allow AirPods Pro 2 users to access hearing aid capabilities without the need for traditional prescription devices.

The prevalence of hearing loss in the U.S. is significant, with approximately 15% of adults — around 37.5 million people — reporting hearing issues, according to the National Institutes of Health (NIH). Hearing loss becomes more common with age, affecting 22% of adults aged 65-74 and 55% of those 75 and older. Beyond just auditory challenges, hearing loss has been linked to higher risks of dementia, walking issues, and social isolation, which can lead to depression and other health problems.

The OTC Hearing Aid Act of 2017 has paved the way for more accessible hearing aid options. Unlike traditional hearing aids, which are costly and require a prescription, OTC hearing aids — including Apple’s AirPods Pro 2 with HAF — provide affordable alternatives for adults with mild-to-moderate hearing loss. Apple’s new feature goes beyond the basic preset modes offered by most OTC devices by allowing users to calibrate their AirPods with a hearing test or audiogram from a specialist, setting the AirPods Pro 2 apart in terms of customization.

Dr. Travis Stehouwer, an audiologist from Falls Church, notes that while Apple’s innovation is promising, users with severe hearing loss should still consult audiologists for diagnostic exams and prescription hearing aids. However, for those seeking affordable solutions, the AirPods Pro 2 offer a convenient and integrated option at a fraction of the cost of traditional devices.

With features like seamless iPhone integration, high-quality audio, and noise cancellation, Apple’s AirPods Pro 2 may soon dominate the OTC hearing aid market, offering users a new, accessible way to improve hearing health.

To learn more, visit Apple’s website at apple.com/airpods-pro.