Apple Launches AirPods Pro 3 with Improved Noise Cancellation and New Health Features
Key Points
- AirPods Pro 3 retain the H2 chip and add a U2 chip in the case for enhanced Find My tracking.
- Slightly smaller design with redesigned memory‑foam ear tips in five sizes for a better seal.
- Upgraded 10.7 mm drivers and multi‑port acoustic architecture improve bass and treble.
- Noise cancellation is claimed to be twice as effective, covering a broader frequency range.
- New heart‑rate sensor and live translation feature expand health and productivity uses.
- Battery lasts up to eight hours with active noise cancellation, ten hours in other modes.
- Charging case achieves IP57 water and dust resistance.
- Retail price set at $249 with shipments slated for mid‑September.
Apple introduced the AirPods Pro 3, its latest noise‑canceling earbuds, at its recent September event. The new model retains the H2 chip while adding a U2 chip in the case for more precise Find My tracking. Design tweaks include a slightly smaller body, redesigned memory‑foam ear tips in five sizes, and upgraded drivers for better bass and clarity. New health‑focused features such as a heart‑rate sensor and a live translation capability are also included. Battery life extends to up to eight hours with active noise cancellation, and the case is IP57 rated. Pricing is set at $249 with shipments slated for mid‑September.
Overview
Apple unveiled the AirPods Pro 3 during its September launch event, positioning the earbuds as a step forward in both audio performance and health monitoring. While the core H2 chip remains, the charging case now incorporates a U2 chip that enhances the precision of Apple’s Find My location system.
Design and Fit
The new earbuds feature a slightly smaller silhouette compared to the previous generation. Apple redesigned the angle of the buds so the ear tips point more directly into the ear canal, and introduced new memory‑foam tips available in five sizes, including an extra‑extra‑small option. The exterior of the tips remains silicone, but the internal foam aims to provide a tighter seal, which is crucial for effective noise cancellation.
Audio Quality and Noise Cancellation
Equipped with 10.7 mm drivers and a multi‑port acoustic architecture, the AirPods Pro 2 deliver deeper bass and clearer treble. Apple claims the noise‑canceling capability is twice as effective as the prior model, covering a broader frequency range, especially mids and highs that are traditionally harder to mute. Upgraded microphones further improve voice‑calling performance.
New Health and Software Features
The AirPods Pro 3 add a heart‑rate sensor, a feature previously seen only in Beats PowerBeats Pro 2. They also support a live translation function that works with iPhones running Apple Intelligence, expanding the earbuds’ utility beyond audio playback.
Battery Life and Durability
Battery life reaches up to eight hours with active noise cancellation engaged and up to ten hours when using transparency or hearing‑aid modes. The case is rated IP57 for water and dust resistance, an upgrade from the IPX4 rating of the prior generation.
Pricing and Availability
Apple set the retail price at $249. Pre‑orders opened at the event, with shipments scheduled for mid‑September.
Conclusion
With refined ergonomics, stronger noise cancellation, added health monitoring, and improved durability, the AirPods Pro 3 aim to solidify Apple’s position in the premium true‑wireless market while offering features that appeal to both audio enthusiasts and fitness‑focused users.