Apple is anticipated to introduce a feature in iOS 18 that would let AirPods Pro function as hearing aids, according to a recent issue of the Power On newsletter. The report, cited by 9to5Mac, quotes Bloomberg correspondent Mark Gurman, a longtime insider whose insights on Apple events have often been accurate. If confirmed, the update would mark a notable expansion of Apple’s accessibility tools, aligning premium wireless headphones with medical devices in the domain of hearing support for users in North America.
AirPods already include Live Listen, a feature launched with iOS 12 in 2018. Live Listen essentially turns the iPhone into a directional microphone that streams audio to the AirPods in real time, enabling wearers to position the device closer to a sound source and enjoy clearer audio through the headphones. This capability has been a practical option for those who wish to amplify conversations in noisy environments or when the user’s hearing loss makes it difficult to discern voices from a distance. The technology demonstrates how consumer electronics can supplement traditional hearing aids by leveraging existing devices for enhanced listening experiences without requiring specialized hardware.
In 2021, Apple added Conversation Boost to AirPods Pro, a feature that increases the microphones’ sensitivity to better isolate and amplify speech from people who are near the user. Observers have noted that Conversation Boost raises the potential for AirPods Pro to approach the performance characteristics of some medical devices designed for the hearing impaired. This development is part of a broader trend toward more accessible, software-driven hearing support embedded in popular consumer devices, which can reduce barriers for individuals who rely on assistive listening tools in daily life.
At this stage Gurman has not disclosed the proposed branding or technical specifics of the new hearing aid mode in iOS 18, nor the metrics by which it would be evaluated for medical applicability. Nonetheless, industry watchers anticipate that the upcoming feature will follow the established pattern of Apple disclosures, with a controlled rollout and accompanying settings that emphasize user control, privacy, and the option to tailor amplification levels. While no official confirmation has arrived, the accumulation of corroborating signals from reliable insiders has reinforced confidence in a forthcoming announcement, particularly given Apple’s ongoing emphasis on accessibility and inclusive design across its product ecosystem.
As these developments unfold, users in Canada and the United States may soon see AirPods Pro become a more versatile tool for hearing assistance, blending consumer convenience with clinical considerations. Observers may look for details on how the new mode interacts with existing health features, whether it requires a specific iPhone model or iOS 18 subtitle settings, and how it handles data related to hearing health. The broader implication is clear: mainstream wireless headphones are increasingly positioned to support everyday listening needs in addition to providing high-quality audio playback, signaling a shift toward more universal access to assistive audio technologies.