How to set up Hearing Aid mode on your AirPods (2024)

Step 1: Make sure your devices are updated.

The Hearing Aid mode is a software, not hardware, feature. That means AirPods Pro 2 owners still need to make sure their earphones are updated to the latest firmware, and that their connected iPhone or iPad is updated to iOS 18.1.

Step 4: Select "Take a Hearing Test" or "Use a Prior Test Result."

Users who already have an audiogram from their doctor can upload their results using "Add a Hearing Test Result" under "Use a Prior Test Result."

Step 5: Follow the instructions on screen to complete a hearing test.

The test will ask basic identifying information, including if you have recently been in a loud environment or had an illness, then automatically turn on active noise cancellation (ANC). You will then be given additional prompts and hear several tones. This is known as "pure-tone audiometry."

Step 7: Follow the instructions on screen to activate your AirPods as hearing devices.

Once prompted, select "Turn On Hearing Aid." Using your hearing test results, your device will automatically adjust your earphones' settings. Depending on your results, you may be prompted to turn on Media Assist (which customizes media sound controls, like music, phone calls, and videos) to help you hear better.

Step 1: Go to AirPods settings and select "Hearing Assistance."

Step 5: Use the Tone slide bar to adjust the brightness of sounds in hearing aid mode.

For brighter amplified sounds, move the Tone slider to the right. For darker, less bright tone, move it more to the left.

Step 6: Use Ambient Noise Reduction to filter external sounds in or out.

Moving the slide bar to the right decreases the amount of ambient noises picked up by your device.

Credit: Apple

Credit: Apple