AirPods Pro 3 arrive with heart-rate sensing and enhanced active noise cancellation

At a recent event, Apple introduced the highly anticipated third generation of the AirPods Pro, showcasing a host of innovative features designed to enhance user experience. Priced at $249, the new model is equipped with an advanced H3 chip, marking a significant upgrade since the release of the Pro 2 model in 2022. One of the most exciting additions is the heart-rate sensing capability, a first for the AirPods lineup. This feature operates similarly to the Powerbeats Pro 2, utilizing LED sensors to deliver accurate heart-rate measurements that sync seamlessly with Apple’s Fitness app. The new AirPods Pro also boast improved audio quality and enhanced active noise cancellation, which Apple claims is now twice as effective as that of the previous model. The H3 chip not only boosts sound performance but also extends battery life, making for a more enjoyable listening experience. In addition to these improvements, a forthcoming feature will allow for live translation through the upcoming iOS 26 update. This will enable users to hold conversations in different languages, with the iPhone translating while the AirPods manage the audio. The design has also seen a revamp, with smaller and more comfortable earbuds and a total of five ear tip sizes to ensure a perfect fit. While the current release is a noteworthy enhancement, speculation is rife about a rumored high-end variant expected to launch in 2026. This version is anticipated to feature an infrared camera for gesture detection and an upgraded spatial audio experience when paired with Apple’s Vision Pro headset.