Some models of Apple AirPods can now function as hearing aids thanks to a new software update, a development launched on Monday. Experts are optimistic, though they note this innovation will likely only impact a subset of the millions of Americans with hearing loss.
Approximately 30 million Americans, or about 1 in 8 individuals over 12, experience hearing loss in both ears. Many would benefit from hearing aids, yet most have never tried them, according to data from the National Institute on Deafness and Other Communication Disorders. Those who have often stop using them due to cost, discomfort, or stigma.
In recent years, the conversation around accessible hearing aids has grown. A pivotal rule change two years ago allowed hearing aids to be sold over-the-counter, an effort aimed at improving accessibility and affordability. Last month, Apple secured FDA approval for software enabling the AirPods Pro 2 to function as hearing aids.
Though it’s unclear if this shift has increased hearing aid accessibility, Apple's move aligns with the creative approaches advocates envision. Below is a closer look at hearing loss, hearing aids, and how Apple’s new solution fits in.
The Impact of Hearing Loss on Health
Around 15% of Americans report hearing challenges. While most affected individuals are over 60, hearing loss spans all ages and is more prevalent among men and those in rural areas. Beyond communication, hearing loss has ties to isolation, depression, and cognitive issues, including an increased risk of dementia. It may also contribute to falls, a significant health risk for older adults.
“Hearing is central to our social and professional interactions,” says Barbara Kelley, executive director of the Hearing Loss Association of America. “The earlier people address hearing issues, the better their outcomes.”
Getting a Hearing Aid No Longer Requires a Prescription
Prior to a 2022 FDA rule change, individuals needed a doctor’s prescription to obtain a hearing aid. Now, hearing aids are available over-the-counter. While this expansion hasn’t spurred a rush, as audiologist Elizabeth Stangl from the University of Iowa explains, she notes that wider availability could eventually drive prices down.
Still, over-the-counter hearing aids typically cost between $400 and $500. Cheaper options often lack advanced features, like noise cancellation and customizable settings, which make quality hearing aids effective.
How Apple’s Hearing Aid Feature Works with AirPods
The new feature is available for AirPods Pro 2 and requires setup through an iPhone or iPad. Built-in hearing tests help users identify hearing needs and tailor amplification settings. Priced at $249, AirPods could be a more accessible option, particularly given the social acceptance of AirPods.
While experts caution about potential downsides, such as comfort and battery life limitations, many see this step as positive. AirPods might encourage more people to try hearing aids, bypassing concerns about aesthetics.
Considerations When Buying OTC Hearing Aids
Stangl recommends thorough research before purchasing an over-the-counter hearing aid. Online communities, like Facebook and Reddit, as well as resources like Hearing Tracker and Soundly, can provide helpful insights. The Hearing Loss Association of America and the American Academy of Audiology also offer guides for choosing a hearing aid. Key features to consider include adjustable pitch controls and feedback management.
Can You Use FSA or HSA Funds for AirPods as Hearing Aids?
Flexible spending accounts (FSAs) and health savings accounts (HSAs) can cover hearing aids, though it’s uncertain if this extends to AirPods Pro 2. Checking with an accountant can clarify if a letter of medical necessity might be required.
Smartphones Can Assist with Hearing Beyond Hearing Aids
Even without specialized hearing aids, smartphones offer tools that support hearing needs. Most smartphones convert speech to text, making conversation easier. The iPhone’s Live Listen feature, for instance, uses the phone as a microphone that amplifies nearby voices.
Additional apps and resources are also available, such as alarm-detection apps and training tools offered by the University of Iowa’s Resource Center for Auditory Training. For instance, the WHO’s hearWHO app offers hearing assessments, while the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health’s Sound Level Meter App measures noise levels.
As Catherine Palmer, director of audiology at the University of Pittsburgh Medical Center, notes, “Smartphones have made hearing care more accessible, serving as helpful amplifiers for mild to moderate hearing loss.”
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