Apple is developing a significant update for AirPods Pro, which may be available as soon as this year. Additionally, new AirPods Max are also on the way. Here’s everything we know regarding the anticipated release of new AirPods from Apple…
## Apple’s Existing AirPods Portfolio
Here is Apple’s AirPods portfolio as it currently stands:
### AirPods Pro 3
#### AirPods Pro 3 Release Timeline
AirPods Pro 3 are viewed as the most eagerly awaited enhancement to the lineup. AirPods Pro 2 were launched in September 2022 and have seen considerable enhancements since then, aided by consistent software updates. There are even new features slated for release later this year alongside iOS 26.
On the hardware front, though, AirPods Pro 3 have been the subject of much speculation. Bloomberg’s Mark Gurman has indicated that AirPods Pro 3 are anticipated to be released later this year. However, analyst Ming-Chi Kuo believes Apple won’t introduce any substantial hardware updates for AirPods until AirPods Pro 3 launches in 2026. Analyst Jeff Pu has also validated this timeline.
That said, there is some minor evidence within the initial iOS 26 beta suggesting Apple is preparing for a prompt launch of AirPods Pro 3. At the very earliest, I expect AirPods Pro 3 could debut this fall, and I tend to align more with Gurman’s timeline than Kuo or Pu.
#### New Features for AirPods Pro 3
Regarding new features, AirPods Pro 3 are anticipated to deliver impressive advancements. They are expected to include a new H3 chip, which should provide significant upgrades to audio quality, battery life, connectivity speed, noise cancellation, Transparency Mode, and more.
There have also been speculations about AirPods Pro 3 incorporating a “new design” of some kind. The specifics remain vague, but one possibility is that Apple may shorten the stems to render AirPods Pro 3 and its accompanying charging case even more compact. However, I wouldn’t expect any drastic design alterations.
Apple introduced groundbreaking new hearing health functionalities to the AirPods Pro 2 last fall. The company is predicted to keep evolving AirPods into a health-oriented device with AirPods Pro 3. There are speculations about a built-in body temperature sensor and heart rate monitoring technology. Interestingly, Apple’s Beats brand launched the Powerbeats Pro 2 earbuds earlier this year featuring a built-in heart rate sensor.
Lastly, Apple is exploring future AirPods variants with integrated cameras, although this upgrade seems unlikely to accompany AirPods Pro 3.
### AirPods Max
Apple made a very slight revision to AirPods Max last fall, swapping the Lightning port for USB-C for charging and introducing new colors. In March of this year, Apple rolled out a firmware update for AirPods Max, enabling lossless audio support and ultra-low latency audio.
According to analyst Ming-Chi Kuo, Apple plans to hold off on new AirPods Max until 2027 at the earliest. That update might represent the most significant overhaul to AirPods Max since their December 2020 debut. Specifically, Kuo indicates we should anticipate a refreshed design that will make AirPods Max considerably lighter, addressing one of the most frequent criticisms of the current design.
### AirPods 5
Apple launched the new AirPods 4 last fall, which introduced considerable enhancements like Active Noise Cancellation for the first time, the H2 chip, a new design, and more.
Currently, there are no rumors regarding what AirPods 5 might entail. I would not expect AirPods 5 to arrive for several more years. When they do get an update, they will likely feature a new H3 chip and other enhancements akin to those in AirPods Pro.
With this in mind, if you’re contemplating the purchase of AirPods 4, now would be an excellent time to make that decision.
## Conclusion
Apple’s most forthcoming plans for new AirPods center around the AirPods Pro 3. This update is expected to be the most significant one on the horizon. AirPods Pro are highly favored, and there haven’t been any substantial hardware modifications since their September 2022 release.
What are your thoughts on the current state of the AirPods range? Are there any major changes you wish to see? Share your views in the comments.
## Top AirPods Pro Accessories
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