Can AirPods Pro 2 really replace your hearing aids? We asked Grandma

The AirPods Pro 2 also have functions to emphasize sounds coming directly at someone, adjust the overall volume, and adjust the balance of each band, but they’re difficult for a non-wearer to adjust, and we didn’t test them in-depth. However, it is a useful feature if the wearer knows how to use it.

Limited use abroad

in spite of AirPods Pro 2 It worked well at home, and its use when my grandmother went outside was more limited. When she went to her fitness center to work out, she was worried that these things might get in the way or that she might lose them. There were also occasions when she felt embarrassed about wearing earbuds in the first place, such as when she was having dinner with friends or attending a concert.

Even I, as someone two generations younger than me, have a habit of taking my headphones out when talking to someone. It’s not surprising that someone her age, part of a generation with few people who wear primarily wireless earbuds, might be more self-conscious when wearing AirPods.

There are also limitations due to battery life. Hearing aids usually have batteries designed to last a full day, while the AirPods Pro 2 will last up to six hours according to the official website. Forgetting to charge your AirPods adequately and then losing hearing aid functionality can be annoying.

Think about manual dexterity, too

Photo: Timothy Lambrick

In addition, there were some operational issues. For example, the Hearing function on the AirPods Pro 2 is only available when External Sound Capture mode is enabled, but the pressure-sensitive sensor on the column used to switch between settings was a little difficult for my grandmother to use at work.

As for inserting and removing the earbuds from the case, which I found difficult at first, I have become more comfortable with the process over time. However, I was still worried about them falling outside, and we considered attaching a string to them, although it would then be difficult to attach and remove the string every time the AirPods needed recharging. Before purchasing them, you may want to consider the dexterity of your family members and the strength of their hands.

After trying the AirPods Pro 2 for a week, my grandmother said she would continue using them at home. I praised them for their in-ear headphones and the fact that they are comfortable to wear. However, it looks like she will continue to use her hearing aids when she leaves the house, at least for now.

This article Originally appeared on Wired Japan.