I recently posted a review of the AirPods Pro ability to amplify sounds for hearing impaired through their Transparency Mode settings. So, I was anxious to evaluate their recent offering of AirPods Pro 2. That new model was supposed to enhance the hearing aid function.
Before my review I want to share my background. I am a 74-year-old audiologist who manages 9 clinics in the Tampa Bay Area of Florida. I have used iPhones and iPads for many years. Although my clinics primarily deliver prescription hearing aids, our doctors advocate for anything that will improve the quality of life for those who have difficulty hearing. We feel over the counter (OTC) hearing aids and devices like the AirPods Pro 2 are good options for some people.
I ordered a set of AirPods Pro 2 from Amazon and downloaded the latest IOS 18 software to my devices. My hearing test was loaded onto my phone. Let me get to the point. I was very dissatisfied with their performance. My original set of AirPod Pros seem to function better for hearing enhancement. Below is a review of my criticisms:
- It seems like the hearing aid function of the Pro 2s is an afterthought and not a priority for Apple. The written instructions offered no directions on how to activate the hearing aid function
- YouTube and other online instructions for activation were inadequate and inconsistent.
- I am a regular user of Amazon Prime. They have convenient return policies but when I went to return these devices, I hit roadblocks that said try this, try that, call Apple etc. I finally had to call Amazon to get authorization for return.
Final Review
I love using my AirPods for audio streaming. But, if Apple is serious about helping the hearing impaired, they need to do a better job of focusing on that feature with better instructions and customer support.
Over time they could evaluate consumer feedback and improve the quality of many peoples’ lives with upgrades and hearing support centers. They have the potential to become the leaders with multifunction OTC hearing devices of they have the commitment to do so.
I have not given up on the AirPod Pro 2 potential to help the hearing impaired. I will follow their progress and probably order another set to evaluate in the future.
