Can the AirPods Pro 2 Really Replace Hearing Aids? We Asked a Grandmother

The AirPods Pro 2 also have the ability to emphasize sounds directed at someone, adjust the overall volume, and adjust the balance of each sound range, but these features are difficult to set up for non-wearers and we didn’t test them. Still, it’s a useful feature if the wearer knows how to use it.

Limited outdoor use

Although AirPods Pro 2 Works great around the house, its use is more limited when my grandma is out and about. When she went to the fitness center to exercise, she worried they would get in her way or that she might lose them. Sometimes she feels embarrassed about wearing headphones in the first place, such as when she has dinner with friends or attends a music concert.

Even I, a person two generations younger than myself, have the habit of taking off my headphones when talking to others. Not surprisingly, people her age, part of a generation where few people wear wireless earphones, might wear AirPods even more unconsciously.

There are also some limitations due to battery life. Hearing aid batteries typically last a full day, and the AirPods Pro 2 can last up to six hours on a charge, according to the official website. Forgetting to fully charge your AirPods and losing hearing aid functionality can be devastating.

Also consider manual dexterity

In addition, there are some operational issues. For example, the AirPods Pro 2’s hearing aid features are only available when external sound capture mode is enabled, but the pressure-sensitive sensors on the shafts for switching settings were a bit difficult for my grandma to operate.

As for getting the headphones in and out of the case, she found it tricky at first, but over time she became more familiar with the process. However, I’m still concerned about her dropping them outside, and we’ve considered tying a chain to them, although the chain would be difficult to attach and remove every time the AirPods need charging. You may want to consider the dexterity and hand strength of your family members before purchasing them.

After trying out the AirPods Pro 2 for a week, my grandmother said she will continue to use them in her home. She praised them as headphones and how comfortable they were to wear. However, it appears she will continue to use her hearing aids after leaving home, at least for the time being.

This article Originally appeared in wired Japan.