With the AirPods Pro 3, Apple is taking the most popular in-ear headphones to a new level. The third generation impresses with an improved fit, the world’s best Active Noise Cancellation (ANC) for in-ear models and innovative fitness features such as integrated heart rate monitoring. The AirPods Pro 3 thus bridge the gap between a first-class sound experience and smart health and training support.
- Up to twice as effective ANC as AirPods Pro 2
- Improved fit with five sizes, including XXS, and IP57 protection
- Heart rate measurement + integration into the Apple Fitness app with over 50 workout types
- Up to 8 hours of playback with active noise cancellation
New ANC technology and optimized sound
The AirPods Pro 3 feature an acoustic multi-port architecture developed from the ground up that precisely controls airflow to create a more spatial, three-dimensional listening experience. This is complemented by the next-generation Adaptive EQ, which reproduces bass more powerfully and treble more clearly. Voices sound more natural, which is an advantage when listening to music as well as during phone calls or video conferences.
The highlight, however, remains the improved noise suppression: Apple claims up to twice the effectiveness of the AirPods Pro 2 and up to four times that of the first generation. This performance is made possible by low-noise microphones, software-supported audio technologies and new foam-reinforced ear inserts that provide additional passive isolation. This makes the AirPods the ideal choice in noisy environments – whether on an airplane, at the gym or out and about in the city.
Revised fit and robust design
Apple has rethought the design of the AirPods Pro 3 after over 100,000 hours of usage studies. The earbuds have become smaller and offer an even more stable fit thanks to their geometry aligned to the center of the housing. For greater comfort, Apple now offers five different attachment sizes – including the new XXS version. The whole thing is accompanied by water and sweat-resistant IP57 protection, which means that the AirPods can now withstand even the toughest workouts or adverse weather conditions.
Particularly practical: the new ear inserts with foam reinforcement ensure longer wearing comfort and reduce the feeling of pressure when moving. The AirPods Pro 3 are therefore not only aimed at music lovers, but also at anyone who wants to wear their earbuds continuously in everyday life or during training.
Fitness features and heart rate measurement
An innovation that goes beyond pure music enjoyment is the first integrated heart rate sensor. Using a photoplethysmography sensor, it measures the light absorption of the blood 256 times per second and, in combination with acceleration and gyro sensors, determines precise training data. Together with the Apple Fitness app, over 50 types of training can be recorded, including calories burned and heart rate zones.
Another highlight is the new “Workout Buddy” experience, which uses Apple Intelligence to provide personalized voice motivation in real time and analyse your progress. For Fitness+ users in particular, the integration offers significant added value: heart rate, calories burned and progress in the activity rings are shown directly on the iPhone display in real time – a range of functions that no other in-ears offer to date.
Environmentally friendly materials and a long service life
Apple is also setting new standards in terms of sustainability: the AirPods Pro 3 are made from 40 percent recycled materials, including 100 percent recycled cobalt in the battery and 65 percent recycled plastic in the housing. They are manufactured using 40 percent renewable energy.
The battery life has also been improved: with up to eight hours of music playback with active noise suppression, the AirPods Pro 3 outperform their predecessors by around a third. Together with the charging case, a total runtime of more than 30 hours is even possible.
Conclusion
With the AirPods Pro 3, Apple is taking wireless in-ears to a new level. They combine first-class sound with the most effective noise suppression on the market and open up completely new areas of application with fitness features such as heart rate tracking. There is also an improved fit that appeals to both athletes and everyday users. With a price of 249 euros and availability from September 19, the AirPods Pro 3 are not just an upgrade, but a clear step towards a multifunctional wearable.
