AirPods Pro 3: Everything We Know So Far

The AirPods Pro 2 may be over two years old, but they’re still a top choice in the wireless earbud market. With Apple rumored to launch the AirPods Pro 3 in 2025, many are wondering whether it’s worth waiting for the next generation of Apple’s premium earbuds. Let’s dive into all the details, rumors, and updates.

The Success of AirPods Pro 2

The AirPods Pro 2 have remained popular thanks to their excellent audio quality, top-notch noise-canceling performance, and Apple’s consistent software updates. For example:

• Adaptive Audio and Mute Controls: Introduced with iOS 17, these features enhanced listening convenience and device switching.
• Head Gestures and Voice Isolation: iOS 18 brought the ability to control Siri with head movements and improved call clarity by cutting background noise.
• Hearing Aid Functionality: With iOS 18.1 and 18.2, AirPods Pro 2 gained FDA-authorized hearing aid capabilities for mild to moderate hearing loss, making them even more versatile.

These updates have ensured that the AirPods Pro 2 remain relevant, even as new competitors enter the market.

What’s Next for AirPods Pro 3?

Design and Performance Upgrades

Rumors suggest Apple is planning a redesign for both the earbuds and the charging case. While details are scarce, we might see a fresh new look that differentiates the AirPods Pro 3 from their predecessors. Apple is also expected to include a faster audio processor, continuing its trend of improving sound quality with each generation.

Improved Noise Cancellation

Reports hint at “significantly better” Active Noise Cancellation for the AirPods Pro 3, building on the already impressive capabilities of the AirPods Pro 2. This could make them a standout choice for those who value immersive listening experiences.

Health-Focused Features

Health tech seems to be a major focus for the AirPods Pro 3. Bloomberg’s Mark Gurman reports that Apple is working on heart rate monitoring technology, similar to what we’ve seen in the Powerbeats Pro 2. With better integration, users may be able to monitor heart rate while listening to music and syncing with gym equipment.

Apple is also rumored to be developing body temperature sensors for the earbuds, though it’s unclear if this feature will debut in the AirPods Pro 3.

Future Innovations

Looking further ahead, Apple analyst Ming-Chi Kuo predicts that AirPods may integrate infrared cameras as early as 2026, enhancing spatial audio when paired with the Vision Pro headset. Gurman has also mentioned plans for small cameras in future AirPods to enable AI-powered features, though these innovations are likely years away.

Lessons from AirPods 4

The design changes introduced in the AirPods 4 could offer hints about what to expect from the AirPods Pro 3. For instance:

• Capacitive Button: AirPods 4 replaced the traditional setup button with a concealed capacitive button on the front of the case.
• Stealthy Status Light: The LED light on the AirPods 4 case only becomes visible when it’s in use, adding a sleek touch.

These updates resulted in the smallest and lightest AirPods case yet, and it’s likely Apple will carry over similar design elements to the AirPods Pro 3.

Release Date Speculation

Bloomberg’s Mark Gurman stated in February that the AirPods Pro 3 are expected in 2025. However, one leaker has claimed that Apple might launch them as early as May or June this year. While exciting, this rumor should be taken with caution, as similar claims in the past have not materialized.

For now, it seems we’ll need to wait a little longer for official confirmation.

Is It Worth Waiting?

With the AirPods Pro 3 potentially launching soon, those considering a new pair of earbuds have a decision to make. The AirPods 4, priced at $179, bring Active Noise Cancellation to a more affordable option. However, if cutting-edge features and health-focused technology are a priority, the AirPods Pro 3 might be worth the wait.

For fitness enthusiasts, the Powerbeats Pro 2 seemed like a strong alternative, but recent connectivity issues have made them less appealing. In contrast, the AirPods Pro 3 are shaping up to be a premium listening solution, particularly if they retain the $249 price tag.

For now, Apple users looking for the best next-gen earbuds may want to hold out for the AirPods Pro 3, which appear to be packed with exciting features.

Amit Gohar