The AirPods Pro 3, the highly anticipated wireless earbuds that haven't seen a major update since 2022, aside from the switch from Lightning to USB-C. According to reports from experts like Mark Gurman, Apple is expected to launch these earbuds with new features like heart rate monitoring, as well as design changes that will make them more appealing. In this article, we'll explore four major design changes expected for the AirPods Pro 3, based on indications from the fourth-generation AirPods. Let's find out all the details!
Smaller charging case
Imagine carrying your earbuds in your pocket without feeling their weight! With the AirPods 4, Apple has made the charging case smaller than ever, but this has come at the expense of MagSafe support in some versions. For the AirPods Pro 3, we expect a smaller case as well, but Apple won't abandon important features like MagSafe wireless charging or Find My speakers, which help locate lost earbuds. This change means greater comfort in carrying them, especially for those who are constantly on the go. For example, if you currently use the AirPods Pro 2, you'll notice a noticeable difference in size, making the new model ideal for fast-paced everyday life.
Goodbye to the traditional pairing button
In the AirPods 4, Apple eliminated this traditional button, replacing it with a capacitive button hidden on the front, directly beneath the status light. To manually pair, simply open the case and tap the front area twice, while to reset to factory settings, tap it three times. This clever design is also expected in the AirPods Pro 3. Imagine being in a hurry and needing to pair the earbuds to a new device—no need to flip the case over! This change enhances the user experience, especially for those new to the world of Apple devices.
Hidden status light
In the world of modern design, less is more, and that's exactly what Apple has done with the AirPods 4. The status light is no longer an ever-present LED dot; it's hidden beneath the white plastic and only appears when the case is opened or placed on the charger. We expect the same thing with the AirPods Pro 3, giving the case a more refined look. This change isn't just aesthetic; it's practical, too, reducing visual distractions and keeping the focus on core functionality. For example, if you're charging the earbuds in a dark room, the light will be clearly visible without being obtrusive all the time. It's a small step that makes the product look more sophisticated.
New in-ear headphone design
Comfort is key in earbuds, and with the AirPods 4, Apple introduced a new design with a shorter stem and a more curved shape for a better fit, but without the silicone tips like the AirPods Pro. For the AirPods Pro 3, we may see a similar update, perhaps with a smaller inner piece and a shorter stem. This means a better fit for different ear shapes, reducing the feeling of pressure during prolonged use.
Although the exact details are still unclear, this change could make the earphones ideal for sports or long calls. Imagine listening to your favorite audio for hours without disturbance.
Additional features with the iOS 26 update
In addition to the design changes, iOS 26 will support new features for all AirPods Pro models via a software update. Most notable are:
◉ Automatically turn off the sound when you sleep, to save battery and protect your ears.
◉ Use the headphones as a remote control for the camera, which is ideal for taking pictures from a distance.
◉ Keep the sound in the speakers even if your iPhone is connected to another device such as a car audio system.
◉ Improve call quality to be clearer.
These features make the AirPods Pro 3 not just a design update, but a step toward greater integration with the Apple ecosystem.
Expected release date
Apple historically releases major AirPods upgrades with new iPhones, so they may be announced alongside the iPhone 17 series on September 9.
The AirPods Pro 3 look set to be an exciting upgrade, combining a sleek design with smart features, cementing their position as the best wireless earbuds on the market. Whether you're looking for greater comfort or new health features, these earbuds are worth the wait.
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