AirPods Pro 3 with a new design, H3 chip, and heart rate sensor. Launch in September?

Apple is ramping up the pace. AirPods Pro 3 are set to debut this autumn, and everything points to it being more than just a cosmetic update. A new look, H3 chip, Bluetooth 5.4 and… health features. Yes, you read that right.

New design that finally makes sense

After years of cosmetic fixes, Apple has finally made a move. The AirPods Pro 3 are getting a complete redesign – still in-ear, but with a better profile, more ergonomic, and with noticeably better fit. For those whose older Pro models fell out of their ears – this could be a positive change.

Chip H3, Bluetooth 5.4 and UWB U2 chip

The new H3 chip is set to significantly improve the performance of ANC (active noise cancellation), battery life, and overall sound quality. In other words, what should be standard, which was... variable in its predecessors. Better processing also means lower latency and more stable connections.

The new Bluetooth 5.4 offers greater range, less lag, and faster switching between Apple devices. Additionally, there's the U2 chip – a newer version of Ultra-Wideband, which will help locate lost earbuds with accuracy down to a few centimetres. The "Find my AirPods" feature may finally start working as it should.

AirPods as a fitness band?

And this is where it gets interesting. AirPods Pro 3 are expected to get a heart rate sensor and possibly temperature measurement as well. Apple is slowly turning the headphones into a health tracking device – and this fits perfectly into their health ecosystem with the Apple Watch and iPhone. If it works – it could make sense.

How much will it cost and when?

Starting price? 280 dollars. In Poland, you can expect a price around 1500–1600 PLN, although that's just speculation. The premiere will likely be in September – together with the iPhone 17. Sales? It's possible that it will start before October, as long as there are no delays in deliveries.

Does it really make sense?

AirPods Pro 3 aren't a revolution, but they are a solid step forward. Apple adds what should have been standard ages ago – better ANC, better sound, more smart features. For ecosystem fans, this could be a great upgrade. For everyone else – we'll have to wait for the first tests.