Apple AirPods Pro 3 release date predictions, price, specs, and must-know features

Apple AirPods Pro 3 release date predictions, price, specs, and must-know features
Apple AirPods Pro 2 | Image credit – PhoneArena

What we know so far 


The AirPods Pro 3 will be Apple's next big release in the world of premium wireless earbuds and while the details are still pretty scarce, you have come to the right place for the latest leaks and rumors. 

Set to launch later in 2025, probably in the fall, there is no word yet on any price increases, so the new earbuds will likely be priced similarly to the current Pro model.

Expect the signature white, rounded-square design to stay intact. As for battery life, while we are hoping for some improvements, it is expected to remain around 30 hours of listening time per charge – which is still pretty good. 

There is also chatter about Apple making these earbuds more health-oriented, with potential features like body temperature monitoring or heart rate tracking.

Keep checking back for more updates, as we will be sharing all the latest leaks, rumors and speculations about Apple’s upcoming true wireless earbuds.


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AirPods Pro 3 release date


The AirPods Pro 3 could launch in just a few months, likely in late summer or in the fall. There is a chance it could launch alongside the upcoming iPhone 17 series, but Apple might surprise us with an earlier release. 

Trusted source Mark Gurman previously mentioned a potential 2025 release, so we can rest easy knowing the Pro model is coming this year. And it is definitely about time – after all, the AirPods Pro 2 dropped back in 2022. Sure, it got some updates later, like the addition of a USB-C port, but it is time for a new model to hit the shelves. 

Here is a glimpse at the possible release timeline:

* - probable dates

AirPods Pro 3 price


We expect the AirPods Pro 3 to cost $249, just like its predecessor, the AirPods Pro (2nd generation). While price adjustments, whether up or down, are always a possibility, it all depends on how significantly different the AirPods Pro 3 may be from the 2nd-gen. However, at present, there is nothing to indicate that this will be the case. 

* - anticipated prices

AirPods Pro 3 design



Given how Apple approached the first and second-gen AirPods Pro, we are probably in for upgrades mainly under the hood. 

The AirPods Pro 3 will likely stick with the familiar white, rounded-square case design we are used to. Look for an LED on the front, a lanyard loop on the side and a speaker at the bottom. Since the AirPods Pro 2 already made the switch to USB-C, it is certain the AirPods Pro 3 will follow suit and ditch the Lightning port in favor of USB-C. 

Moreover, since the next generation will likely include wireless charging, Apple might opt to exclusively feature wireless charging, potentially eliminating the need for a physical charging port altogether.

Regarding the AirPods Pro 3 earbuds, we can anticipate something quite similar, if not identical, to the 2nd-gen AirPods (shown for reference). This includes small white plastic earbuds with a few black and metallic elements, rubber ear tips (available in four sizes), and a stem that is touch-sensitive, or more accurately, squeeze-sensitive.

Apple will likely aim to make the earbuds and their case smaller, but we will have to wait and see if that is indeed the case.

AirPods Pro 3 hardware and specs


These specifications are what we can reasonably anticipate for the AirPods Pro 3. However, as always, it is wise to stay open to the possibility of new features until they are officially confirmed.

  • Apple H3 headphone chip
  • Apple U2 chip in MagSafe Charging Case
  • Sweat and water-resistant (IPX4) for AirPods Pro 3 earbuds and charging case
  • Wireless charging with MagSafe, Apple Watch charger, or any Qi-certified chargers
  • Wired charging via USB Type-C

A while ago, Apple confirmed that the current Pro model had been registered as a hearing aid device. And with the rollout of iOS 18.1, the company indeed added Hearing Aid and Health features to the current generation. So, it is a safe bet that the next-gen AirPods Pro will include this features too.

Additionally, renowned tech journalist Mark Gurman adds that the tech giant is underway to integrate sensors into AirPods for measuring body temperature through the wearer's ear canal. This method might offer greater accuracy compared to wrist temperature measurements done by, for example, the Apple Watch Series 8 and Ultra models.

A recent report backs up these predictions, suggesting that future AirPods models will emphasize health features. Building on the Apple Watch's success, it looks like Apple wants to position AirPods as an essential tool for health management. 

Moreover, last year, Apple rolled out a software update for the AirPods Pro 2. It brought some neat features like:

  • Adaptive Audio, which blends Transparency mode and Noise Cancellation based on your surroundings
  • Personalized Volume feature, which tweaks your media using AI
  • Conversation Awareness, which adjusts the volume during chats. 

The update also introduced Automatic Switching for seamless device transitions and a handy Mute/Unmute feature for simpler audio control. It is likely the AirPods Pro 3 will include these features as well. 

Plus, at its latest WWDC, Apple showcased new communication and interaction features for its AirPods Pro lineup. These include, for example, new ways to interact with Siri, like nodding or shaking your head to respond without speaking, which is great in noisy places.

AirPods Pro is also getting Voice Isolation tech, which boosts your voice while cutting out background noise like wind, ensuring clear calls. We are confident that all these newly introduced features will also be included in the AirPods Pro 3.

AirPods Pro 3 battery life



We are expecting some battery life improvements, but for now, it seems the AirPods Pro 3 will likely stick to a similar – if not identical – claim of up to 30 hours of listening time on a single charge. 

Keeping in mind how the AirPod Pro 2 performs, we can expect the next-gen to offer up to 6 hours of standalone listening time on a single charge (up to 5.5 hours with Spatial Audio and Head Tracking enabled). When used with the case, you can enjoy a total of up to 30 hours of listening time and up to 24 hours of talk time.

Should you wait for the AirPods Pro 3?


  • You should wait for the AirPods Pro 3 if you are not in a rush to get new earbuds. And if you have got the original AirPods Pro and haven’t upgraded to the second generation yet, it might be smart to hang tight and go straight for the third-gen when they drop.

  • You should not wait for the AirPods Pro 3 if you are looking to get new earbuds right away. They might not hit shelves until later this year. And if you already have the upgraded AirPods Pro 2, you probably won’t need to upgrade anytime soon.

Latest Apple news



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