AirPods Pro 2 Authorized by FDA as First Over-the-Counter Hearing Aid Device

Apple has just made history with the AirPods Pro 2! The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has authorized them as the first over-the-counter (OTC) hearing aid device, thanks to Apple’s new Hearing Aid feature. This means that with a simple update, your AirPods Pro 2 can now serve as a hearing aid for individuals 18 years or older with mild to moderate hearing impairment—no prescription or visit to a hearing professional needed.

What Is the Hearing Aid Feature?

The Hearing Aid Feature (HAF) is a new software available on compatible AirPods Pro models that lets users adjust their earbuds to meet their specific hearing needs. It uses a self-fitting strategy, meaning you can set it up all by yourself using your iPhone or iPad! From there, you can fine-tune the volume, tone, and balance settings based on your hearing levels. All of this is done through your iOS device's HealthKit, which helps customize the feature to your unique hearing profile.

Clinical Study Success

In a clinical study with 118 participants, the results were pretty impressive! The study showed that people who used the self-fitting Hearing Aid Feature found just as much benefit as those who had their devices professionally fitted. Plus, the AirPods performed well in tests for amplifying sound and helping with speech understanding in noisy environments. Even better—there were no adverse effects reported!

A Step Forward for Hearing Health

According to the FDA, this approval is a big deal. It’s a huge step toward making hearing support more accessible and affordable for millions of adults with mild to moderate hearing loss. You don’t need to spend a ton of money on specialized devices or visits to audiologists anymore—just grab a pair of AirPods Pro 2!

When Can You Get It?

The new Hearing Aid Feature will roll out this fall, and it will be available in over 100 countries, including the U.S., Germany, and Japan. If you already have AirPods Pro 2, you’re all set. If not, they’re currently on sale for $199 (that’s $50 off the regular price)!

Ready to Hear Better with AirPods Pro 2?

If you're someone who’s been thinking about getting a hearing aid but didn’t want the hassle or cost, this could be the solution you've been waiting for. The convenience of pairing your hearing support with an iPhone or iPad just makes life a little easier—and who doesn’t want that?

Keep an eye out for Apple’s upcoming firmware update, and enjoy better hearing with the AirPods Pro 2!