**Apple AirPods Now Serve as Hearing Aids: Here’s How to Set It Up**
Apple’s AirPods have evolved beyond just playing music—they can now act as hearing aids. Announced in September, the latest **Hearing Aid mode** for AirPods Pro 2 provides clinical-quality hearing assistance for individuals dealing with mild to moderate hearing loss. This capability is built on an on-device hearing evaluation and adjustable sound preferences. Remarkably, it’s the first over-the-counter software of its kind to gain FDA approval.
With the rollout of iOS 18.1 and 18.1.1, users of AirPods Pro 2 can now utilize this feature and seamlessly incorporate it into their everyday routines. Here’s an easy-to-follow guide to get started.
### How to Enable Hearing Aid Mode on AirPods
**Total Time:** 5 minutes
**What You Need:**
– iPhone or iPad
– iOS 18.1
– AirPods Pro 2
#### Step 1: Verify Your Devices Are Up to Date
Since Hearing Aid mode is a software-based feature, confirm that your AirPods Pro 2 are equipped with the most recent firmware and that your iPhone or iPad is operating on iOS 18.1.
#### Step 2: Recharge Your AirPods
Make sure your AirPods have over 10% battery remaining before you continue.
#### Step 3: Link Your AirPods
Insert your AirPods into your ears and launch the settings on your iPhone or iPad. Search for “AirPods.”
#### Step 4: Take a Hearing Test or Use a Prior Test Result
You have the option of taking a new hearing test or uploading an existing audiogram from your healthcare provider by clicking on “Add a Hearing Test Result.”
#### Step 5: Finish the Hearing Test
Adhere to the on-screen prompts to finish the hearing evaluation. The test will request basic information, such as whether you’ve been in a loud setting recently. It will then engage noise cancellation and emit several tones in a process referred to as “pure-tone audiometry.”
#### Step 6: Configure Hearing Aid Mode
After finalizing the test, click on “Set Up Hearing Aid.”
#### Step 7: Activate Your AirPods as Hearing Devices
Follow the on-screen directions and select “Turn On Hearing Aid.” Your AirPods will automatically adjust based on the results of your hearing test. You may also receive a prompt to enable **Media Assist**, which tailors sound settings for music, phone calls, and videos.
Once the hearing aid function is activated, you can further enhance your experience by fine-tuning settings such as sound amplification, left-right balance, tones, and Apple’s **Conversation Boost**, which filters and amplifies the voice of the speaker in front of you. Apple suggests making these tweaks gradually to allow for easier adaptation.
### Customizing Hearing Aid Mode on AirPods
**Total Time:** 2 minutes
**What You Need:**
– Apple device
– AirPods Pro 2
#### Step 1: Open Hearing Assistance Settings
Navigate to your AirPods settings and select “Hearing Assistance.”
#### Step 2: Modify Amplification
Adjust the **Amplification** slider to the right or left to increase or lessen sound amplification.
#### Step 3: Change Left-Right Balance
Utilize the **Balance** slider to change the sound distribution between your left and right ears.
#### Step 4: Tweak Tone
Shift the **Tone** slider to the right for a brighter sound or to the left for a darker, less pronounced tone.
#### Step 5: Activate Ambient Noise Reduction
The **Ambient Noise Reduction** slider helps decrease external noise. Slide it to the right to enhance the reduction of ambient sounds.
For users of iPad and Mac, **Hearing Assistance** can be accessed under “AirPods” in the left sidebar. Quick adjustments can also be made through the Control Center on your device, including on Apple Watch and Mac. Just swipe down from the top-right corner of the screen, select volume controls, and locate the ear icon.
By following these instructions, you can convert your AirPods Pro 2 into a tailored hearing aid, improving your listening experience in various settings.