Apple AirPods Pro 3: What to Expect from Apple’s Next Wireless Earbuds

Apple is gearing up to reveal the AirPods Pro 3 alongside the iPhone 17 series next month, and early leaks confirm one notable change: the charging case will no longer have a physical pairing button.

Instead, Apple is moving to a small touch-sensitive area, mirroring the design shift already seen on the upcoming AirPods 4.

Aside from this tweak, the AirPods Pro 3 look set to remain almost identical to the AirPods Pro 2. Despite earlier rumors, the case dimensions will stay the same, and the earbuds themselves are not expected to see any meaningful redesign. In other words, if you’re already happy with the Pro 2, you’ll feel right at home with the Pro 3.

Apple’s cautious approach makes sense. The AirPods Pro 2 are widely regarded as one of the best wireless earphones available, offering excellent sound, comfort, and integration with Apple devices. While audiophiles may still prefer wired in-ear monitors for absolute sound quality, very few true wireless earbuds compete with the AirPods Pro or Samsung’s Galaxy Buds line in this category. The two brands remain at the top for soundstage, detail, and tuning – with Samsung edging slightly ahead in raw audio fidelity.

One thing that probably won’t remain the same is the price. Analysts suggest that tariff uncertainty and the introduction of new touch controls could push the cost of the AirPods Pro 3 a little higher than their predecessors. So while the changes are subtle, your wallet might notice the difference.

Ultimately, the AirPods Pro 3 seem less like a revolution and more like a refinement – a continuation of what Apple already perfected. For fans of Apple’s ecosystem, that might be more than enough.