Apple AirPods Pro 2 can now perform ably – and cheaply – as over-the-counter hearing aids, but there are some flaws and compromises.

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 2: Ensure your AirPods are charged above 10 percent.

There’s no question that AirPods Pro 2 are the best earbuds Apple makes, and they keep getting better with awesome new capabilities such as the Hearing Aid and Hearing Protection features added in iOS 18.1. They’re frequently on sale, and we always say they’re worth paying a little extra for if you can afford it.