When the update comes to the AirPods Pro 2, as Apple announced during the iPhone 16 launch event, the earbuds will amplify sounds for individuals with perceived mild to moderate hearing impairment. To be clear, the FDA has approved the use of AirPods Pro 2 as hearing aids only for adults 18 years or older. So minors and children with hearing issues may need a different solution.

Apple's move to develop the hearing aid functionality for AirPods marks a significant milestone for the true wireless ecosystem. We'll likely see more brands inculcate healthcare solutions in earbuds going forward. Samsung also offers an Ambient Sound feature on the Pro Galaxy Buds, which lets users control the tone range of individual earbuds. It's not the same as what Apple is doing with its planned software update to the AirPods Pro 2, but it could be a precursor to a full-fledged hearing aid mode from Samsung.