Audio-Technica Challenges AirPods Pro with New Smart Hearing Care Headphones

Explore how Audio-Technica's new Mimio smart headphones offer advanced hearing support and compete with AirPods Pro’s hearing aid mode.

Introducing Audio-Technica’s Mimio: A New Era in Hearing Care

When you hear Audio-Technica, you might immediately think of those classic Hi-Fi cartridges for vinyl players. But this Japanese audio powerhouse is not just about retro charm—they’re diving headfirst into the modern wireless headphone market. In 2025, they rolled out some impressive gear: wireless headphones boasting outstanding battery life and even bone conduction models. But here’s the kicker — they’re now stepping up to challenge Apple’s AirPods Pro with something truly innovative under a fresh sub-brand named Mimio, focusing on hearing health.

Apple shook things up with their AirPods Pro 2 by introducing a hearing aid mode that amplifies specific frequencies to assist those with mild to moderate hearing loss. This feature debuted last year in the US and only recently arrived in the UK after legal shifts allowed it. Audio-Technica isn’t sitting still—they’ve launched Mimio headphones that aim to rival that capability, alongside a handy portable speaker for TV audio enhancement.

Here’s a quick video showcasing Mimio’s offerings and tech in action:

How Mimio Headphones Compete with AirPods Pro’s Hearing Aid Mode

AirPods Pro 2’s hearing aid mode cleverly boosts certain frequencies to help you catch conversations in noisy settings, paired with Apple’s renowned noise cancellation. Mimio’s headphones take a similar stance but with a unique twist: they’re designed for people noticing their hearing isn’t what it used to be, yet who don’t need a formal hearing aid prescribed by a doctor.

According to experts, the Mimio headphones are classified as personal sound amplification products by the FDA, which means no prescription is needed in places like the US and Japan—you can grab them over the counter.

Basically, if you’re struggling to hear in busy environments but aren’t ready for a medical device, Mimio aims to be the bridge.

Meet Mimio Assist One and Mimio Sound Move: Features and Pricing

In today’s world, headphones are more than just sound devices—they’re like pocket-sized assistants. Some use AI to transcribe meetings or translate languages in real time. Others help you focus better by filtering noises. Intense competition, right? But Audio-Technica spotted a growing need: as people live longer, many notice their hearing fades, especially in social spots like bars and restaurants.

Mimio Assist One (ATMM-SHD1) Headphones

The Mimio Assist One wireless earbuds look sleek, resembling the high-autonomy ATH-CKS50TW model. Here’s the catch: you can use them just like any Bluetooth headphones if your hearing is fine. But once you pop them out of the box, a special hearing aid mode activates automatically—even before pairing with any device, which is a big bonus for those who want simplicity.

They come with three tailored modes:

• Conversation Mode – Optimized for chatting
• TV Mode – Enhances TV audio clarity
• Outdoor Mode – Designed for noisy environments outside

Plus, these headphones can suppress your own voice so you can better hear the people around you. There’s a dedicated app to tweak settings, and impressively, the earbuds have IP55 protection against dust and water jets, meaning they can handle some messy weather or sweat without breaking a sweat themselves.

Mimio Sound Move (ATMM-SP780TV) Speaker

For TV lovers who want clear sound without cranking volume, Audio-Technica introduces the Mimio Sound Move. This wireless speaker sits near you and connects to your TV via a transmitter/charging dock up to 98 feet away. It features Clear Sound software for crystal-clear speech and a voice guidance system that alerts you about battery life and other statuses.

While it boasts IPX2 protection—able to survive brief raindrops—it’s best kept indoors.

When and Where: Availability and Pricing

Mimio Assist One headphones hit the Japanese market on August 1, followed by the Sound Move speaker on August 8. Now, brace yourself: these aren’t budget gadgets. The headphones are priced at about 370 USD (roughly 49,500 yen)—significantly pricier than AirPods Pro 2. The Sound Move speaker comes in around 160 USD (21,780 yen), comparable to some of the top-tier Bluetooth speakers.

But here’s something cool — Mimio offers rental options to test before committing:

• 20 nights for about 30 USD
• 3 months for approximately 100 USD

This rental approach is a clever way to make sure the products fit your needs without the upfront splurge.

“Mimio headphones are a game-changer, offering studio-quality sound and hearing assistance every day.” — Audio-Technica

For a taste of the studio-grade sound and daily hearing care in action, check out this video below:

Conclusion

Audio-Technica’s Mimio line pushes the boundary of smart headphones by blending advanced hearing care with everyday usability. If you’ve felt the sting of fading hearing but aren’t quite ready for a hearing aid, these headphones might just be your golden ticket. What do you think — could Mimio headphones replace your current earbuds or even challenge the AirPods Pro crown?

FAQs

• How does Mimio Assist One differ from regular Bluetooth headphones?
  Mimio Assist One activates a hearing aid mode straight out of the box, enhancing specific sounds for those with mild hearing loss without the need for pairing.
• Are Mimio headphones available outside Japan?
  Currently, they are launching in Japan with potential availability in the US, but wider global release details are pending.
• Can the Mimio Sound Move speaker be used outdoors?
  The speaker has limited water resistance (IPX2), so it’s best used indoors and protected from heavy rain.
• Do I need a prescription to buy Mimio headphones?
  No prescription is required; Mimio headphones are classified as personal sound amplification devices.
• Is there a way to try Mimio headphones before purchasing?
  Yes! There are rental plans available for short-term or three-month trials.

Ready to elevate your listening experience and care for your hearing? Shop your favorite album cover posters and audio gear at Architeg Prints to complete your audio setup with style and sound!