Apple is preparing for its September 9 “Awe Dropping” event, and the spotlight may not be only on the iPhone 17 lineup. The long-awaited AirPods Pro 3 are finally expected to launch, bringing the biggest update to Apple’s premium earbuds in years.
The most talked-about upgrade is health tracking. Leaks suggest in-ear heart-rate monitoring and even a temperature sensor, features that could turn AirPods into discreet health wearables. Whether you are on a run or just want a quick check without strapping on a watch, the new sensors could make everyday use smarter and more personal.
Performance will not be left behind. The AirPods Pro 3 are expected to run on a new H3 chip, delivering richer audio, more reliable connectivity, and stronger active noise cancellation. When paired with iOS 26, the earbuds may also unlock features like Live Translation, sleep detection that pauses playback, improved voice isolation during calls, and even studio-quality recording.
The design looks to be more refined than revolutionary. The charging case will reportedly slim down, drop the old pairing button in favor of a capacitive touch control, and feature a repositioned LED indicator for better visibility. A lighter feel and improved Find My precision through upgraded ultra-wideband are also rumored. The earbuds themselves could be slightly smaller and more comfortable for all-day wear.
As for pricing, Apple has traditionally kept Pro models at $249, but some analysts warn a bump closer to $299 would not be a surprise.
Looking further out, Apple is also said to be preparing a more advanced model with infrared cameras for spatial experiences, targeted for 2026. For now, though, the AirPods Pro 3 are shaping up to be Apple’s smartest and most practical earbuds yet.
