Apple introduced new AirPods models this fall, but a hardware update for the AirPods Pro wasn’t among them, even though many were anticipating a new Pro generation. What will the new AirPods Pro 3 features be, and when will they be launched? Here’s everything we know about the release date and expected features of the AirPods Pro 3.
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AirPods Pro 3 Will Launch in 2025
Unfortunately, the AirPods Pro 3 are not ready for release this year. Recent information suggests 2025 as the release period for the AirPods Pro 3.
The first two generations, AirPods Pro and AirPods Pro 2, were launched during Apple events in October and September, where new iPhone and Apple Watch generations were also unveiled. It’s expected that the AirPods Pro 3 release date will similarly fall in the autumn of 2025.
Although patience is being tested, the rumored new features of the AirPods Pro 3 might make the wait worthwhile.
Possible Features of AirPods Pro 3
Certainly, this new generation of premium headphones from Apple they will bring some design changes and features that are not present on the current models.
Improved and more ergonomic design
After six years of maintaining the original 2019 design, the AirPods Pro 3 will introduce a fresh look. While the changes won’t be radical, Apple will optimize the design for greater comfort and extended functionality, based on user feedback. These adjustments will contribute to a more comfortable fit for more users and enhance the overall audio experience.
Frankly, it’s hard to imagine how Apple could improve the current design, as many users already consider it a success. However, Apple has continued refining the base AirPods model, as seen with this year’s AirPods 4.
The New H3 Chip Will Drive Many of the AirPods Pro 3 Features
For some products, new chips don’t necessarily bring significant improvements. However, Apple’s H-series chips have been an exception so far. The transition from H1 to H2 allowed Apple to deliver considerable enhancements for the AirPods Pro 2 compared to the previous generation.
Since its introduction, the H2 chip has powered a variety of new features added to the AirPods Pro 2 and now the AirPods 4. Even the premium AirPods Max models lack some of these features, as they are equipped with the older H1 chip.
Thus, a cornerstone of the AirPods Pro 3 will be the new H3 chip. This processor promises substantial performance improvements, delivering more refined audio quality. Its increased processing power will optimize the audio mix for clearer and more detailed sound.
Additionally, the H3 chip will enable more efficient external sound isolation and smarter environmental adaptation. Significant upgrades to ANC (Active Noise Cancellation) and Conversation Awareness features are highly likely.
Advanced Health Features in AirPods Pro 3
Just as the Apple Watch has become an increasingly important health tool, the AirPods Pro 3 could follow suit, potentially becoming a useful instrument for health monitoring.
The new features might include sensors for measuring body temperature. Through the ear canal, AirPods could provide more accurate temperature readings than wrist-worn devices. This functionality could open new possibilities for health tracking and would not be feasible without the future H3 chip.
Features such as Hearing Test, Hearing Protection, and Hearing Aid—introduced with the AirPods Pro 2—are expected to be retained and enhanced.
External Cameras and Artificial Intelligence
External cameras could add exciting new functionalities to the AirPods Pro 3 feature set. It’s not yet clear if this hardware update will be part of the AirPods Pro 3 or a future generation, but Apple is reportedly working on a version of AirPods Pro that uses external cameras and artificial intelligence to understand the surrounding environment and provide information to the user.
If the AirPods Pro 3 includes cameras, they could communicate with the iPhone to perform various tasks using AI. For example, the Visual Intelligence feature in iOS 18.2 for iPhone 16 could receive an audio version powered by the AirPods Pro 3 cameras.
Enhanced Audio Quality in AirPods Pro 3
Beyond new technological features, the AirPods Pro 3 will continue to excel in sound quality, as they have since the first generation. With the H3 chip and potential new hardware components, sound quality will reach new standards. We can also expect advancements in sound-related features like Noise Cancellation and Adaptive Transparency.
Related: AirPods 4. All the differences between the two versions
Conclusion
The AirPods Pro 3 promise significant improvements in design, audio performance, health features, and AI integration. However, their launch is expected only in the fall of 2025.
