Apple AirPods Pro 3 may steal the spotlight with surprise debut at Apple event

As anticipation builds for Apple's upcoming "Awe Dropping" event on September 9, the spotlight is expected to shine not just on the iPhone 17 but also on several new accessories. Speculation surrounding the launch of the Apple AirPods Pro 3 has been ongoing. Initially, renowned analyst Ming-Chi Kuo suggested that the new earbuds would not make their debut until 2026. However, just days before the event, Kuo has revised his stance, confirming that Apple is indeed poised to unveil the AirPods Pro 3 alongside the iPhone 17. Kuo further hinted at the potential future release of AirPods Pro 4, which may feature significant hardware upgrades, including an IR camera model slated for 2026. Recent leaks have provided intriguing insights into the capabilities of the AirPods Pro 3. Notably, Apple is rumored to incorporate an optical heart rate monitor, allowing users to track their heart rate throughout the day and during workouts, much like the feature found in the Beats Powerbeats Pro 3. Additionally, the new earbuds may include an in-ear temperature sensor designed to deliver more precise body temperature readings, surpassing the skin temperature measurements currently available from the Apple Watch. To enhance user experience, the AirPods Pro 3 is expected to integrate a new H3 audio chip, promising improvements in power efficiency, sound quality, and connectivity, along with a more robust active noise cancellation system. The charging case for the AirPods Pro 3 is anticipated to be more compact, while also introducing support for several iOS 26 features, including "pause when sleeping," "camera remote," and "studio quality recording." While there has yet to be an official announcement regarding pricing, early leaks suggest the earbuds could be offered at a price range of $250 to $300. Stay tuned for more updates on the anticipated iPhone 17 and its various models.