What’s the Difference Between Apple AirPods and Prescription Hearing Aids?

Over the past few months, the audiology world has been buzzing with the release of Apple’s iOS 18, which includes some hearing aid functionalities like an in-app hearing test and utilizing the Apple AirPods Pro 2 as sound amplifiers. 

As far as normalizing hearing care goes, Apple’s hearing aid features have sparked some great conversations regarding normalizing hearing care and making sure people know that anyone can be affected by hearing challenges, regardless of age. 

But how does Apple’s new venture into hearing aid functionality compare to an actual hearing aid, prescribed and programmed by a professional? 

Apple AirPods Pro 2: Hearing Aid Mode 

iOS 18 isn’t Apple’s first hearing care-related feature: Live Listen makes your iPhone into a general sound amplifier with your AirPods, and Conversation Boost allowed for amplified conversations with the person in front of you. 

These latest features are a little more in depth, including a pure-tone audiometry test built into the accessibility settings, which tests for general hearing loss, and personalization features in your AirPods Pro 2 to allow for enhanced listening capabilities. 

While the pure-tone audiometry test included in iOS 18 is basic compared to a professional hearing assessment, Apple’s hearing aid features can provide general sound amplification at an accessible point for many individuals.  

AirPods are not equal to hearing aids, but for those with mild hearing challenges, these features can be a good entryway to the world of hearing care. 

Prescription Hearing Aid Technology 

Prescription hearing aids are the hearing care equivalent to eyeglasses you get from an optician to correct eyesight: Hearing aids are a professional way to manage your hearing loss challenges that’s customized to your unique needs. 

With a comprehensive hearing assessment informing your audiologist of what your ears need most, your hearing aids will be personalized and programmed to your specific requirements.  

Many modern hearing aids come with a variety of great features, including Bluetooth connectivity for direct audio streaming, smartphone compatibility for remote support and adjustments, physical health monitoring, AI sound processing, and more. 

Of course, the device comes secondary to the professional care needed to prescribe and program it: With your audiologist’s recommendations and guidance, you can rest assured that your hearing health will be looked after to a gold-standard level of best practices. 

Key Differences at a Glance 

The comparison of medical device versus consumer technology is a crucial point of differentiation. AirPods are accessible and cheaper in price point and can work for some situations, but for more acute hearing loss challenges, prescription devices will be your best bet to manage hearing loss. 

There’s also the point of customization: While there are some personalization options with Apple’s hearing aid features, prescription devices are specifically prescribed for your unique hearing needs. 

However, the biggest difference between Apple AirPods Pro 2 and prescription hearing aids is the level of care you receive. Apple’s hearing aid features are entirely handled by you at home, where prescription hearing aids are recommended, prescribed, programmed, fitted, repaired, and maintained by a professional with deft hands and industry knowledge. 

Professional Care vs. Casual Solutions 

Ultimately, the choice is up to you. If you need something to help boost your hearing in busy situations, the Apple AirPods could be the simpler choice for your needs.