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

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

New design that finally makes sense

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

Chip H3, Bluetooth 5.4 and chip UWB U2

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, yet was… inconsistent 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 an accuracy of a few centimetres. The "Find My AirPods" feature can finally start working as it should.

AirPods as a fitness band?

And this is where it gets interesting. The AirPods Pro 3 are expected to feature a heart rate sensor and possibly temperature measurement as well. Apple is gradually turning its 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, one can expect a price around 1500–1600 PLN, although that is just speculation. The premiere is most likely in September – alongside the iPhone 17. Sales? It's possible that it will start even before October, provided there are no delays in deliveries.

Does it really make sense?

AirPods Pro 3 are not a revolution, but they are a concrete step forward. Apple adds what should have long been standard – better ANC, better sound, more smart features. For fans of the ecosystem, this could be a great update. For others – we will have to wait for the first tests.