The FDA has approved Apple’s AirPods Pro 2 to be used as over-the-counter hearing aids, making them a more affordable option for the 30 million Americans with mild to moderate hearing loss.
This move is part of a larger effort to make hearing aids more accessible, especially for those who avoid traditional options due to high costs and the stigma surrounding hearing aids.
The FDA approved a software update that will transform AirPods Pro 2 into hearing aids, offering users the ability to amplify specific sounds, such as voices, while reducing background noise.
This update, which will be available through iOS 18 later this year, includes a hearing test in the Apple Health app that customizes sound settings based on individual needs.
The AirPods Pro 2, priced at $249, provide a more affordable alternative to traditional hearing aids, which can often cost thousands of dollars.
This price point, combined with Apple’s widespread market presence, could help reduce the stigma surrounding hearing aids, particularly among middle-aged Americans who might be hesitant to seek help for hearing loss.
Experts see this development as a game changer in the hearing aid market.
Jackie Clark, a clinical professor in the audiology program at the University of Texas at Dallas, noted that even mild hearing loss can lead to isolation and decreased quality of life.
Apple’s AirPods could act as a “bridge” for consumers who are reluctant to seek treatment through conventional means.
Barbara Kelley, executive director of the Hearing Loss Association of America, praised Apple for bringing attention to hearing health.
“With Apple’s mainstream popularity, they are well-positioned to destigmatize hearing aids and make hearing health a focus for millions,” she said.
However, audiologists caution that consumer earbuds like the AirPods Pro 2 may not be sufficient for individuals with severe hearing loss, who may still need professional support and fine-tuning.
Nonetheless, the FDA’s approval marks a significant step toward improving accessibility and affordability for millions of Americans.
By making hearing aids more accessible through familiar consumer products, the FDA hopes that more individuals will seek help for their hearing loss, ultimately improving their quality of life.