AirPods Pro 3 Set for 2025 Launch, But AirPods Pro 4 Could Redefine Earbuds

Apple’s highly anticipated AirPods Pro 3 may finally make their debut at the company’s upcoming “Awe Inspiring” keynote on September 9, an event that already has fans speculating about big product reveals. With only days left, expectations are mounting that Apple will pull back the curtain on its next-generation premium earbuds. The new AirPods Pro 3 are rumored to carry several refinements and meaningful upgrades compared to their predecessor, though a more groundbreaking addition is apparently being reserved for the AirPods Pro 4, slated for late 2026.

Well-known Apple analyst Ming-Chi Kuo, who has a strong track record for accurate predictions, suggests that Apple plans to release the AirPods Pro 3 in the second half of 2025.

This aligns with hints found in iOS 26 code, indicating that the tech giant is already preparing software support for the device. While the official release window might disappoint those hoping for immediate availability, the feature set being teased looks promising enough to justify the wait.

Design changes are expected, albeit subtle. Apple reportedly wants to refine the look without straying too far from the iconic form factor users are accustomed to. The centerpiece of the AirPods Pro 3 will likely be the new custom H3 chip, which is said to significantly improve Active Noise Cancellation, outperforming the current AirPods Pro 2 in isolating sound. On top of that, Apple is also expected to introduce health-focused enhancements – including heart rate tracking, temperature monitoring, and more advanced Hearing Assistance tools. These inclusions highlight the company’s growing interest in blending wellness features into its audio hardware, continuing a strategy that has already redefined the Apple Watch ecosystem.

Despite these upgrades, Kuo emphasizes that the truly revolutionary leap won’t arrive until the AirPods Pro 4. This future generation is rumored to integrate infrared-capable cameras, a radical move for earbuds. According to patents already filed by Apple, the design involves a miniature optical lens system, paving the way for applications in augmented reality and forming an eventual bridge to the company’s long-expected smart glasses. While details remain scarce, the potential for immersive interaction could transform AirPods from being simply audio accessories into multi-functional wearable tech.

For now, the AirPods Pro 3 still represent a significant leap over the AirPods Pro 2, which are currently on sale for $199.99 on Amazon with a 20% discount. Even without the futuristic camera system, the combination of improved noise cancellation, health features, and subtle design refinements makes the upcoming model a compelling option for buyers unwilling to wait until 2026. Apple enthusiasts may face a tough decision: upgrade soon for meaningful improvements or hold out for a potentially game-changing innovation. Either way, Apple is clearly positioning its AirPods Pro lineup as more than just earbuds, but as a critical part of its broader wearable strategy.