### Rumor Replay: Latest Apple Product Speculations
This is **Rumor Replay**, a weekly feature at *9to5Mac* providing a brief overview of the latest Apple product speculations, along with analysis and insights. Today: anticipated timing for the AirPods Pro 3 release, modifications inspired by AirPods 4, a rumored feature for the iPhone 17 Pro, Camera Control 2.0, and more. Here’s this week’s roundup of Apple rumors.
#### AirPods Pro 3 Release Appears Close
Following considerable ambiguity regarding the launch timing for the AirPods Pro 3, and with a rising chance of having to wait until 2026, Mark Gurman from *Bloomberg* delivered encouraging news. According to Gurman, AirPods Pro 3 are anticipated to be featured in Apple’s new product lineup this autumn. This suggests a launch during the September 9 event alongside the iPhone 17.
Additionally, two insiders have noted that the charging case for AirPods Pro 3 will be slightly reduced in size and will replace the physical pairing button with a capacitive option similar to AirPods 4.
**My Insights:** If Gurman’s sources are correct regarding the AirPods Pro 3’s imminent release, it’s quite surprising that it took so long for this timing to clarify. The absence of supply chain leaks concerning AirPods Pro 3 may suggest that the earbuds’ design is nearly identical to AirPods Pro 2, even with the smaller charging case.
#### Reverse Wireless Charging for iPhone 17 Pro Models
Among the latest iPhone 17 Pro rumors is the possibility that both Pro and Pro Max variants may feature reverse wireless charging. This capability would allow charging of other devices such as AirPods, Apple Watch, and potentially another iPhone on the rear of the 17 Pro.
**My Insights:** As noted by my colleague Ben this week, there are reasons for skepticism regarding the implementation of reverse wireless charging. While technical limitations exist, the source of this rumor also lacked robustness. It merely indicated that Apple had trialed the feature on iPhone 17 Pro, not that it was guaranteed to be included. That said, the more incentives Apple has to attract buyers to its premium iPhones, the better.
#### iPhone 18 Might Remove the Camera Control Button
Leaker Instant Digital reported this week that Apple is examining iPhone 18 prototypes with a significant alteration to the Camera Control button. In contrast to the current Camera Control features, next year’s iteration may eliminate all touch-sensitive elements. Essentially, it would turn into a straightforward Camera launcher and capture button.
**My Insights:** I’m intrigued by how many iPhone 16 users feel they’ve genuinely mastered the various touch features of Camera Control. Personally, I often activated them by mistake, leading me to disable them entirely in Settings. I enjoy utilizing Camera Control as a quick method to access the Camera app and take pictures, and it appears that this might be the focus of next year’s alleged downgrade (or upgrade?).
#### New Crossbody Strap and Bumper Case Accessories
Leaker Majin Bu disclosed information about an upcoming Apple accessory associated with the iPhone 17 series. The ‘Crossbody Strap’ is said to connect with the new iPhone 17 cases through a magnetic link, allowing you to wear your iPhone more conveniently. Regarding accessories, Mark Gurman mentioned that Apple has evaluated a bumper case for the iPhone 17 Air, though he is uncertain if the product will actually be released.
**My Insights:** I’ve long believed that Apple could delve deeper into the realm of first-party iPhone accessories. For example, I enjoy my MagSafe Battery Pack and hope for a new USB-C variant. Cases featuring integrated straps have surged in popularity over the years, and I’m eager to see what Apple has planned with its own version.
What are your thoughts on this week’s AirPods Pro 3 or iPhone speculations? Share your views in the comments.
