Apple's AirPods Pro 2: A Game-Changer for Mild Hearing Loss or Just a Novelty?

In a move that blends cutting-edge technology with healthcare, Apple's AirPods Pro 2 have emerged as a potential alternative to traditional hearing aids for individuals experiencing mild to moderate hearing loss. Testing the capabilities of these earbuds reveals that while they incorporate an impressive hearing test, they fall short of the thoroughness provided by professional audiograms. The AirPods Pro 2's hearing assessment employs a method akin to what you might find in a doctor's office. Users interact with both the earbuds and their iOS devices, tapping the screen whenever they detect a tone. The tones vary in pitch and timing, designed to minimize guessing and enhance accuracy. Preliminary evaluations conducted with a panel of testers, including two Wirecutter staffers and a regular hearing-aid user, suggest that Apple's results are comparably close to those obtained through audiograms. However, the labeling of these results raises concerns, particularly regarding the potential for misclassification. For example, one test indicated a hearing loss of 0 to 5 decibels, while another pointed to 25 to 30 dB, yet both were categorized under "mild to no" hearing loss. This inconsistency is significant, especially since only the higher-loss result actively engaged the hearing-aid functionality of the AirPods. Further analysis of the frequency response before and after the testing revealed that the AirPods Pro 2 effectively amplified sound in correspondence with the identified hearing deficits. This responsiveness indicates that the technology can provide a meaningful enhancement for users with hearing challenges, at least within the limitations of its design. It's essential to note, however, that Apple's hearing test does not encompass the full battery of assessments available through professional audiologists. A comprehensive evaluation typically includes various tests such as the tuning-fork test and tympanometry, which provide insights into the underlying causes of hearing loss and the health of the eardrum. Moreover, Apple's system is limited to testing frequencies up to 8 kilohertz, while musicians and audiology experts often measure up to 20 kHz. Therefore, for those with more complex hearing issues or who desire a complete assessment, seeking specialized care remains crucial. An additional hurdle for users is the process of integrating existing audiogram results into Apple's system. While it is technically possible to import these results, our testers found the procedure to be cumbersome and frustrating. Issues with incomplete data transfers and inconsistent accessibility settings complicated the experience, requiring substantial time and effort to troubleshoot. Such challenges underscore the need for improvements in user interface and functionality, which could enhance the overall experience in future software updates. In summary, while the AirPods Pro 2 offer a promising entry point for individuals with mild to moderate hearing loss, they should not be viewed as a complete substitute for professional audiological assessments and services. The technology demonstrates significant potential, but users must remain aware of its limitations and the importance of seeking expert guidance for comprehensive hearing care.