Apple is expected to launch the third-generation AirPods Pro this fall with a strong emphasis on health features, upgraded noise cancellation, and possible design changes. The earbuds are likely to be announced at Apple’s September 9 event alongside iPhone 17 models and other new hardware.
The update signals Apple’s intention to make AirPods Pro 3 more than just wireless earbuds. Code found in iOS 26 and multiple supply chain leaks suggest the new model will push deeper into wellness and audio innovation, keeping them ahead of rival offerings.
Design changes and future potential
AirPods Pro 3 may feature a lighter, more compact design with new materials for extended comfort. Apple is reportedly exploring advanced sensor placement within the earbuds to enable health features without increasing bulk.
Health and fitness features
AirPods Pro 3 are rumored to include heart rate tracking and body temperature monitoring, expanding Apple’s health ecosystem beyond the Apple Watch. Because the ear canal provides more stable readings than the wrist, these sensors could offer improved accuracy for both workouts and daily wellness checks.
Integration with the Health app on iPhone will likely allow users to sync earbud data with existing Apple Watch metrics, giving a fuller picture of personal health trends. This aligns with Apple’s broader wellness strategy, where multiple devices contribute to monitoring fitness and wellbeing.
Noise cancellation and audio upgrades
Apple is expected to deliver stronger Active Noise Cancellation (ANC) for AirPods Pro 3. The improvements are said to enhance clarity, reduce low-frequency background noise, and provide more advanced adaptive transparency.
This would allow users to filter out disruptive sounds such as traffic or construction while still hearing voices and important alerts. Reports also suggest better resistance to wind interference, improving call quality outdoors.
What’s next for AirPods?
While AirPods Pro 3 are unlikely to debut with cameras, reports suggest Apple has been experimenting with embedding tiny camera modules in future AirPods. These could support spatial computing experiences, hand gesture recognition, or even enhanced video calls when paired with Vision Pro.
Such features may still be a few years away, but Apple’s internal research highlights how AirPods could evolve from pure audio devices into powerful wearable computing tools. By teasing this possibility, AirPods Pro 3 set the stage for a much larger roadmap in Apple’s product ecosystem.
Release date, price, and availability
AirPods Pro 3 are expected to debut on September 9, 2025, with retail availability before the end of the month. Apple typically refreshes its Pro earbuds every two to three years, and this timeline fits the pattern set by the AirPods Pro 2 launch in September 2022.
Pricing is anticipated to remain at $249, keeping them consistent with the previous generation while offering a significant feature boost.
Comparison with AirPods Pro 2
| Feature | AirPods Pro 2 | AirPods Pro 3 (rumored) |
| ANC | Strong ANC | Upgraded ANC with adaptive transparency |
| Health sensors | None | Heart rate and temperature tracking |
| Design | Standard Pro design | Lighter, more compact design |
| Release | 2022 | September 2025 (expected) |
| Price | $249 | $249 (expected) |
FAQ
Will AirPods Pro 3 work with older iPhones?
Yes, they will be compatible with iPhones running iOS 26, though some health features may require newer hardware.
Are the new health features medically certified?
Apple typically markets these features as wellness tools rather than medical devices, so they may not be FDA-approved at launch.
Will AirPods Pro 3 support Apple Intelligence?
Integration with iOS 26 suggests personalized Siri suggestions and adaptive audio modes will be part of Apple Intelligence support.
When can I buy AirPods Pro 3?
They are expected to go on sale later in September following Apple’s fall event.
With health tracking, improved ANC, and design refinements, AirPods Pro 3 could be Apple’s biggest leap forward for its wireless earbuds yet. The possibility of future AirPods with cameras adds an intriguing layer to Apple’s long-term wearable vision, making these earbuds a central piece of the ecosystem.
Would you upgrade from AirPods Pro 2 to AirPods Pro 3? Let us know in the comments.
