AirPods Pro 3 keep generating buzz as we approach the launch of Apple's next-generation premium wireless earbuds. Here's what to expect from AirPods Pro 3, which probably will arrive in early 2025.
While the current AirPods Pro 2 model dominates the market two years after launch, rumors say its successor will bring substantial improvements and new features. Unfortunately, you probably shouldn't expect changes to the recently updated AirPods 4 and AirPods Max in 2025. We could see updated earbuds or headphones from Apple subsidiary Beats, though.
According to recent reports, the AirPods Pro 3 should launch in 2025. Some sources specifically point to early 2025 as the target window. This would mark a slight departure from Apple's typical fall release schedule for AirPods Pro models. The first generation launched in October 2019 and the second rolled out in September 2022.
Most Apple watchers expect the third-gen AirPods Pro to be the sole update to Apple earbuds and headphones for the year, not counting possible updates or new products from subsidiary Beats, like Powerbeats Pro 2. That's because AirPods 4 and AirPods Max recently received updates. So they probably won't get more in 2025.
For the first time since AirPods Pro debuted in 2019, Apple reportedly plans a redesign for both the noise-canceling earbuds and their wireless charging case. And of course, the baseline for AirPods Pro 3 functionality will be all the great features of AirPods Pro 2.
While specific details remain scarce, the company might incorporate some of the refinements seen in the recently released AirPods 4. These could include the elimination of the traditional setup button in favor of a concealed capacitive button on the front of the case. A more-discreet status light that only becomes visible when the case is opened or charging could come into play, too.
Health monitoring appears to be a major focus for AirPods Pro 3. Apple is developing new sensors that could allow the earbuds to measure body temperature from within the ear canal. That potentially offers more accurate readings than wrist-based measurements, according to Bloomberg. And a new heart-rate monitoring feature could be ready for AirPods Pro 3 as well.
The new model also will inherit the recently introduced clinical-grade hearing aid functionality from the AirPods Pro 2. The second-gen buds received Food and Drug Administration approval for people with mild to moderate hearing loss this year.
At the heart of the AirPods Pro 3 coming in 2025, we expect Apple's rumored H3 chip, succeeding the current H2 processor in AirPods Pro 2. Given Apple's track record with H-series chips, this upgrade could enable significant improvements in audio processing and feature implementation.
The H2 chip in AirPods Pro 2 doubled the earbuds' noise-cancellation capabilities as compared to the first generation. Reports suggest the H3 will push these boundaries further with even better active noise cancellation, aka ANC.
Looking further ahead than 2025, Apple seeks to integrate external cameras and artificial intelligence capabilities into future AirPods Pro models. While it's unclear if these features will debut with AirPods Pro 3 or appear in a later iteration, they could enable the earbuds to better understand the user's environment and provide contextual information.
Additionally, TF International Securities analyst Ming-Chi Kuo suggests Apple might introduce infrared cameras as soon as 2026 to enhance Spatial Audio experiences when paired with Apple's Vision Pro headset.
When they arrive, AirPods Pro 3 should inherit all the software features currently available on the AirPods Pro 2. Those include Adaptive Audio, head gesture controls for Siri, Voice Isolation, Personalized Spatial Audio for gaming, the new Hearing Health features and more.
Apple gradually introduced many of these features through iOS and firmware updates, demonstrating the company's commitment to enhancing the earbuds' capabilities over time. So AirPods Pro 3 should start off strong and get better over time, too.
With the recent AirPods 4 release bringing some Pro features like "ANC lite" to a lower $179 price point, AirPods Pro 3 will need to justify its premium positioning through superior performance and exclusive features. Rumors suggest the new earbuds' price will remain $249. The combination of new health-monitoring capabilities, improved ANC and potential AI integration could help maintain its differentiation.
While AirPods Pro 2 remain a compelling option thanks to regular feature updates, those willing to wait until 2025 may be rewarded with significant improvements in design, performance and functionality. As more details emerge about AirPods Pro 3, it will become clearer whether this next generation represents a revolutionary step forward or a more incremental upgrade.