The earbuds feature a new multiport acoustic architecture that enhances sound delivery, offering a richer bass response, a wider soundstage, and clearer vocals across music, calls, and media. This design, paired with next-generation Adaptive EQ, ensures every note and word is delivered with precision, making the listening experience more immersive whether users are enjoying a podcast on a commute or music during a workout. The improvements stem from Apple’s focus on computational audio, which fine-tunes output based on the user’s ear shape and environment.
The standout feature is the world’s best in-ear Active Noise Cancellation (ANC), according to Apple’s testing. Capable of removing up to twice the noise of AirPods Pro 2 and four times that of the original model, the ANC uses ultra-low noise microphones and advanced algorithms to create a near-silent listening environment. This makes the earbuds ideal for noisy settings like public transit or busy offices. Additionally, the Transparency mode has been refined to make conversations feel more natural, allowing users to stay aware of their surroundings without sacrificing audio quality.
Fitness Integration
For fitness enthusiasts, AirPods Pro 3 introduce a game-changing feature: heart rate monitoring. Using a custom photoplethysmography (PPG) sensor, the earbuds measure blood flow 256 times per second to track heart rate during workouts. Paired with an iPhone running iOS 26, users can monitor over 50 workout types through the Fitness app, tracking metrics like calories burned and Move ring progress. The addition of Workout Buddy, powered by Apple Intelligence, offers personalized motivational insights based on fitness history, making the earbuds a companion for runners, yogis, and gym-goers alike.
The earbuds also cater to hearing health, building on features introduced with AirPods Pro 2. The Hearing Test, now more accurate thanks to improved ANC, allows users to assess their hearing from home. For those with mild to moderate hearing loss, the Hearing Aid feature provides amplification, with automatic Conversation Boost for clearer dialogue in loud environments. These capabilities position AirPods Pro 3 as not just audio devices but holistic health tools.
Enhanced Design
Apple’s research, involving over 10,000 ear scans and 300 million data points, has resulted in a redesigned AirPods Pro 3 that prioritizes fit and stability. The earbuds are smaller, with a re-engineered internal structure and foam-infused ear tips available in five sizes, including a new XXS option. This ensures a secure fit for a wider range of users, particularly during high-intensity activities like running or HIIT workouts. The IP57 rating for sweat and water resistance further enhances durability, making the earbuds reliable in tough conditions.
The charging case has also been updated, featuring a slimmer profile and a notification light for quick status checks. MagSafe wireless charging remains, with rumors of future reverse charging capabilities from iPhones, though not yet confirmed. These design tweaks make the AirPods Pro 3 more portable and user-friendly, addressing common pain points like earbud slippage during movement.
Live Translation
One of the most innovative additions is Live Translation, a beta feature powered by Apple Intelligence. Available in select languages like English, French, and Spanish, with plans to add Italian, Japanese, Korean, and Chinese by year’s end, this feature enables hands-free, real-time translation during conversations. Users can speak naturally through their AirPods, with translations delivered audibly or displayed on an iPhone for the other party. When both users have compatible AirPods, the experience is seamless, with ANC reducing background noise to keep the focus on the translated dialogue.
This feature has practical applications for travelers, professionals, and anyone engaging in cross-lingual communication. By integrating computational audio with on-device AI, Apple ensures low latency and high accuracy, making face-to-face interactions smoother in diverse settings.
More New Features
AirPods Pro 3 offer notable improvements in battery life. With ANC enabled, users can enjoy up to eight hours of music playback, a 33 percent increase over the previous model. Transparency mode now supports up to 10 hours on a single charge, a 67 percent improvement. These gains make the earbuds more practical for all-day use, whether for work, exercise, or leisure.
Apple’s commitment to sustainability is evident in the AirPods Pro 3’s construction. The earbuds incorporate 40 percent recycled materials, including 100 percent recycled cobalt in the battery and 65 percent recycled plastic in the case. Manufactured using 40 percent renewable energy, the product aligns with Apple’s 2030 carbon-neutral goal. The 100 percent fiber-based, recyclable packaging further reduces environmental impact, appealing to eco-conscious consumers.
Priced at $249, AirPods Pro 3 are available for pre-order now, with in-store availability starting September 19. The price reflects the premium features, from advanced ANC to health-tracking capabilities, making them a compelling option for Apple ecosystem users. New buyers also receive three months of Apple Music and Apple Fitness+ free, enhancing the overall value. For those seeking added protection, AppleCare+ or AppleCare One plans offer coverage for accidents, battery replacement, and 24/7 support.
The AirPods Pro 3 set a new standard for wireless earbuds, blending cutting-edge audio technology with practical health and communication tools. As Apple continues to innovate, these earbuds signal a future where personal audio devices do far more than play music—they enhance how we move, connect, and listen.