Getting Started
Welcome to OndaHear! Follow these steps to set up the app for the first time.
- Download and Install - Get OndaHear from the App Store. Requires iOS 15 or later.
- Grant Permissions - Allow Microphone, Speech Recognition, and Bluetooth access when prompted.
- Connect Headphones - Pair your AirPods or plug in wired headphones. Headphones are required to prevent feedback.
- Start Listening - Select "Listen" mode and tap the green START button!
Listen Mode
Listen Mode turns your iPhone into a powerful hearing amplifier.
- Select "Listen" on the main screen
- Tap the START button
- Adjust the Volume Boost slider as needed
- Position your iPhone facing the person speaking
- Tap STOP when done
Tip: Start with volume around 200-300% and adjust from there.
Live Captions
See real-time text of what's being said.
- Toggle "Live Captions" to ON
- Start a listening session
- Watch the caption box for transcribed text
- Use the A buttons to adjust font size
- Tap "Save Transcript" to save the conversation
Conversation Mode
Connect two iPhones for two-way communication.
- Both devices need OndaHear installed
- Connect to the same WiFi network
- Select "Conversation" on both phones
- One device hosts, the other joins
- Speak normally - audio transmits between devices
Translation Mode
Real-time speech translation. Requires iOS 26+.
- Select "Translation" mode
- Choose source and target languages
- Tap START and speak clearly
- View translated text on screen
- Tap the swap button to switch languages
Pro Tips
- Position matters: Place your iPhone between you and the speaker
- Reduce noise: Turn off TVs, move away from air conditioners
- External mic: A USB microphone dramatically improves quality
- Take breaks: Rest every hour during extended use
- Stay charged: Audio processing uses battery