Apple Unveils AirPods Pro 3: Deeper Bass, Smarter Features, and More

Apple has officially introduced the AirPods Pro 3, its most advanced wireless earbuds to date. The latest model delivers significant improvements in sound quality, noise cancellation, comfort, and introduces new smart features that extend beyond audio playback.

Enhanced Audio Experience

While still powered by Apple’s H2 chip, the AirPods Pro 3 feature a new multiport acoustic architecture, complete with inward-facing microphones and improved airflow control.

These changes result in deeper bass, a wider soundstage, and clearer vocals, all supported by Apple’s custom-built driver and amplifier. With Bluetooth 5.3, the AirPods Pro 3 aim to compete directly with top-tier audio devices in terms of sound fidelity.

Industry-Leading Noise Cancellation

Apple is challenging Bose by claiming the AirPods Pro 3 offer the “world’s best in-ear ANC.” The earbuds feature upgraded microphones, a better acoustic seal, and advanced computational audio, which Apple says doubles the noise cancellation performance compared to the AirPods Pro 2.

For passive isolation, Apple has introduced five eartip sizes, each made of soft foam fused with silicone. This ensures a snug, comfortable fit — even before active noise cancellation kicks in — making them highly effective for everyday use.

Battery Life: Longer Earbud Use, Shorter Case Capacity

The AirPods Pro 3 offer up to eight hours of playback with ANC and up to 10 hours in Transparency mode, which can also serve as a hearing aid.

However, the total listening time with the case has decreased from 30 hours (Pro 2) to 24 hours. Apple explains this change by noting that the earbuds themselves last longer on a single charge, reducing the need for frequent case recharging.

The charging case is now lighter and slightly larger, and includes a new U2 chip for precise location tracking.

Improved Fit and Design

Apple has redesigned the AirPods Pro 3 for a more ergonomic fit, incorporating inward-rotating eartips and adding a new XXS size option — bringing the total to five eartip sizes. This update is especially helpful for users who previously experienced fit issues.

Advanced Smart Features

The AirPods Pro 3 go beyond audio with several new smart additions:

• Heart-rate sensors for fitness tracking
• IP57 water-resistance for added durability
• Camera control button on the stems for remote photo and video capture

Most notably, the AirPods Pro 3 introduce live translation functionality. At launch, this feature supports English, French, German, Portuguese (Brazil), and Spanish. Working with Apple Intelligence and iOS 26, users can activate translation or live transcription by pinching both stems, with results displayed in real time on the iPhone screen.

Read More: New AirPods features in iOS 26 – sleep detection, camera control & more