Ashley Shew's "A Gateway Hearing Aid" explores how Apple's AirPods Pro 2 have transformed from simple earbuds into affordable, over-the-counter hearing aids. Following FDA approval, users can now self-test and adjust their hearing through an app—bypassing clinics and high costs. While limited to mild or moderate hearing loss, AirPods help reduce stigma by blending hearing technology with everyday devices, marking a major shift in accessibility, autonomy, and how people manage hearing health through personal tech.
