1. Home
  2. Hearing Augmentation & Protection
  3. Can I use AirPods instead of hearing aids?

Can I use AirPods instead of hearing aids?

How can I use my AirPods or hearing aids with my iPhone to improve my hearing?

If your hearing loss is mild, wireless earbuds like AirPods can be used as an assistive listening device when paired with a smartphone.

Ask your audiologist about your hearing aids and iPhone use.

Some hearing aids can also be wirelessly connected to your iPhone via Bluetooth. 

Your iPhone and hearing aids generally work best together in “M” or Acoustic Coupling mode. Position the iPhone receiver near the hearing aid’s built-in microphone (or microphones). 

For best results, try using the iPhone in different positions relative to your hearing aid, e.g. placing the receiver slightly above the ear may result in better performance for hearing aids with microphones positioned behind the ear. 

If Acoustic Coupling does not produce a satisfactory result, try using your hearing aid in “T”, or telecoil coupling mode.

To use your hearing aid in this mode, make sure that your hearing aid is set to “T”, or telecoil coupling mode (not all hearing aids have this mode). Always check if your iPhone has Hearing Aid Compatibility. 

Updated on November 24, 2022

Was this article helpful?

Related Articles

Not the right answer?
If this isn't the answer you're looking for, please try the search above. Or, get in touch so we can get the right answer for you and, importantly, for others who may be looking for the same thing.
Ask The Aud