Up until now, speculation has suggested that Apple’s next AirPods Pro 3 model is slated for release later this year. However, GF Securities analyst Jeff Pu has presented an alternative timeline. In one of his recent updates, he indicated that the launch of Apple’s AirPods Pro 3 is anticipated to occur in 2026.
Currently, it’s uncertain what factors may have led Apple to postpone its AirPods Pro 3 plans. Nonetheless, it might be related to some of the new features expected from these earbuds, such as the much-awaited heart rate monitor that was first seen in the Powerbeats Pro 2.
Notably, Pu’s update emerged after MacRumors identified mentions of AirPods Pro 3 in the initial iOS 26 beta. If Apple has indeed modified its plans, it is conceivable that the company may eliminate those mentions in future beta releases.
Here are some of the anticipated features of AirPods Pro 3
Even if Apple postpones the launch of AirPods Pro 3, these earbuds are projected to incorporate a variety of new features, including:
Significantly enhanced ANC: For the third generation of AirPods Pro, Apple is expected to considerably refine the ANC. It may build upon the technology found in AirPods 4, which provides ANC even without the use of ear tips. This advancement will be made possible due to the following anticipated feature.
H3 chip: Apple excels in the development of its audio chips, which were first introduced with the inaugural AirPods model. The company is set to further enhance audio quality and connectivity between AirPods and iPhone, while also introducing new features such as improved ANC, better hearing aid functionalities, and more.
Enhanced hearing aid functionalities: AirPods Pro 2 were the first earbuds to provide hearing aid capabilities. Apple will keep advancing this feature with the upcoming iterations of its professional-grade earbuds.
