At Apple’s “Awe Dropping” event on September 9, the iPhone 17 is anticipated to take center stage, though it won’t be the sole new offering. The AirPods Pro 3 is also expected to make a noteworthy introduction.
The AirPods Pro 2, launched in the autumn of 2022, had a design that was starting to show its age but continued to provide excellent sound and features. Apple has likely dedicated three years to the development of the AirPods Pro 3, which is said to introduce substantial changes.
Here’s a glimpse of what the AirPods Pro 3 could bring when they arrive next week.
Note: The details below are based on speculation, and some features may not be present at launch.
A refreshed design and more compact case
The AirPods Pro 2 delivered impressive sound, yet their aesthetic was aging. The AirPods Pro 3 is said to come with a revamped design, inspired by the AirPods 4’s update from last year. Anticipated modifications include a more compact case, elimination of the pairing button, a smoothly integrated status light, and a redesigned earbud to enhance fit and reduce the likelihood of them falling out. These remain speculative, and Apple’s intentions are still unverified.
The innovative H3 chip, improved noise cancellation, and enhanced sound quality
The AirPods Pro 3 is believed to incorporate Apple’s advanced H3 chip, promising faster connectivity, enhanced battery performance, and upgrades to Transparency mode. This new chip is also expected to boost active noise cancellation and overall audio quality, although the degree of these enhancements will only be ascertainable upon testing.
Heart rate monitoring capabilities
Apple has previously rolled out heart rate monitoring in the Beats Powerbeats Pro 2, and the AirPods Pro 3 is suggested to be the first in Apple’s range to offer this functionality. The earbuds will monitor your heart rate during exercise. Specifics about this feature remain vague until the official launch.
Temperature sensing
Temperature sensing is another health-related capability rumored for the AirPods Pro 3. This feature is already implemented in the Apple Watch, but measuring temperature via the ear is considered more precise. Little information is available regarding this capability in the AirPods Pro 3, as it has yet to be included in Apple’s wireless earbuds.
Real-time Translation
Real-time translation has been part of iOS 26 since its launch. This AI functionality would operate akin to competing earbuds, with the user’s iPhone converting conversations and relaying them through the earbuds. It remains unclear whether this feature will be available at launch or introduced in a subsequent update. We will discover more next week.
More to appreciate
The AirPods Pro 3 promises substantial enhancements over the AirPods Pro 2. With updated internals and design, coupled with health features, these earbuds are set to compete effectively for years to come.