Heroes of Hearing Heroes Blog/Hearing Loss/AirPods Pro 2 as OTC Hearing Aids: A Game-Changer for Hearing Health?

Wednesday, September 11, 2024

Apple announced exciting news about the AirPods Pro 2 during its September 9th, 2024 event, revealing that these earbuds will soon function as over-the-counter (OTC) hearing aids. This upgrade, part of the iOS 18 release this fall (pending FDA clearance), could help millions globally with mild to moderate hearing loss by offering features like adaptive transparency, conversation boost, and custom hearing profiles via the iPhone. With over 1.5 billion people affected by hearing loss worldwide, this could offer life-changing support for many.

Key features include:

- Adaptive Transparency: Automatically lowers environmental noise while preserving speech.
- Conversation Boost: Enhances voices during one-on-one conversations.
- Custom Hearing Profiles: Personalizes sound amplification to your specific needs via iPhone.
- Noise Reduction: Improves clarity in noisy environments


Who Might Not Benefit:
While this innovation brings convenient, affordable solutions to many, it may not be suitable for individuals with:
- Severe to profound hearing loss
- Complex audiological needs
- Those requiring in-depth hearing care and adjustments

OTC devices like AirPods Pro 2, while impressive, lack the customization, long-term care, and specialized support that professional audiology services provide. Hearing aids dispensed through clinics are custom-fitted and finely tuned for each patient’s specific hearing profile.

Why Choose Heroes of Hearing:
At Heroes of Hearing, we go beyond OTC hearing aids by offering:
- Comprehensive hearing assessments
- Custom-fitted hearing aids designed for your individual needs
- Ongoing support, including adjustments and maintenance
- Specialized care for more complex hearing loss cases

While AirPods Pro 2 with OTC hearing aid features may be helpful for some, personalized care ensures that your hearing health is fully addressed—not just through technology, but with expert support and attention.

For patients who need more than what OTC devices can offer, our dedicated hearing aid specialists and cutting-edge hearing solutions ensure you get the best possible care for your hearing health.​

Apple Airpod Pro 2

Go from “out of the loop” to immersed in the joyful sounds within your world.

Get ready to rediscover every dynamic layer of expression, from gentle conversations to the beat of your favorite song.

Go from “out of the loop” to immersed in the joyful sounds within your world.

Get ready to rediscover every dynamic layer of expression, from gentle conversations to the beat of your favorite song.