Five Features Coming to AirPods Pro 3
AirPods Pro 3: What to Expect from Apple's Next-Gen Earbuds
Apple's AirPods Pro haven't received an update since 2022, leaving many eager for a refresh. While Apple hasn't officially announced anything, numerous rumors and code hints strongly suggest a new model – the AirPods Pro 3 – is coming later this year. This article delves into five key features expected to make the upgrade worthwhile.
1. Enhanced Health Monitoring Capabilities
Apple's recent release of the Powerbeats Pro 2, featuring heart rate monitoring, strongly suggests a similar feature for the AirPods Pro 3. The announcement of heart rate monitoring in the Powerbeats Pro 2 has fueled speculation. This would be a significant leap for Apple's earbuds, bringing health tracking directly into the ears. Beyond heart rate, there's also speculation about in-ear temperature sensing. While the Apple Watch measures skin temperature, its accuracy for detecting fevers is limited. In-ear temperature readings could provide a more reliable and convenient method for health monitoring.
2. A Significant Audio Quality Boost
Rumors point towards an upgraded H-series chip within the AirPods Pro 3. This suggests a considerable improvement in audio quality is on the cards. The AirPods Pro 2 currently support Lossless Audio when paired with the Vision Pro headset, utilizing a proprietary wireless audio protocol. There's a strong possibility that Apple will extend this capability to other devices with the AirPods Pro 3. Furthermore, the adoption of Bluetooth 5.4 is highly anticipated, promising reduced audio latency and a smoother listening experience.
3. Next-Level Active Noise Cancellation (ANC)
The rumored H-series chip upgrade isn't just about audio quality; it's also expected to significantly enhance Active Noise Cancellation (ANC) and Adaptive Audio. The H2 chip in the AirPods Pro 2 already boasts impressive ANC capabilities, actively reducing noise at an astounding 48,000 times per second. With the new chip, we can expect even more effective noise reduction, making the AirPods Pro 3 even better at blocking out distracting environmental sounds. This improvement could lead to a more immersive and enjoyable listening experience, regardless of your surroundings.
4. A Refined and Sleeker Design
Along with internal improvements, the AirPods Pro 3 is likely to receive a design refresh. The recent AirPods 4 introduced a slimmer case, a hidden capacitive pairing button, and a concealed LED. These design enhancements are expected to carry over to the AirPods Pro 3, creating a more refined and visually appealing product. Furthermore, there's speculation that the earbuds themselves will undergo a design overhaul, possibly resulting in smaller earpieces and shorter stems, leading to a more comfortable and discreet fit.
5. Enhanced Tracking with Ultra Wideband (UWB)
Improved tracking capabilities are anticipated with the integration of Apple's second-generation Ultra Wideband (UWB) chip. This will significantly enhance the accuracy of the Find My app, making it easier to locate your AirPods Pro 3 if they happen to get misplaced. The improved precision of UWB should ensure faster and more reliable tracking, reducing the frustration of losing your expensive earbuds.
Addressing Previous Rumors: Live Translation
Live Translation was initially rumored as a feature for the AirPods Pro 3. However, this functionality has been rolled out to all AirPods models connected to iPhones supporting Apple Intelligence and running iOS 26. The feature also extends to compatible Macs and iPads, suggesting Apple is expanding this accessibility across its product ecosystem rather than making it exclusive to a single device.
When Can We Expect the AirPods Pro 3?
All signs point towards a launch later this year, potentially at Apple's September event, alongside the expected unveiling of the iPhone 17. The anticipation is high, and with the promised improvements in health monitoring, audio quality, noise cancellation, design, and tracking, the AirPods Pro 3 could be a significant upgrade for existing users and a highly compelling option for those considering their first pair of Apple's flagship earbuds.
This article, "Five Features Coming to AirPods Pro 3" first appeared on MacRumors.com
Discuss this article in our forums
from MacRumors
-via DynaSage
