“Apple’s AirPods Pro 3, expected in late 2025, could feature heart rate monitoring, following the Powerbeats Pro 2’s lead. Rumors suggest advanced health tracking, including in-ear temperature sensing, improved ANC, and an H3 chip for better performance. Leaks from Apple’s iOS 26 code hint at a September launch alongside the iPhone 17 series, promising a major upgrade for fitness enthusiasts.”
AirPods Pro 3 Set to Revolutionize Health Tracking with Heart Rate Monitoring
Recent leaks and rumors indicate that Apple’s AirPods Pro 3, slated for a potential release in September 2025, could bring groundbreaking health-tracking features to the table. Among the most anticipated additions is in-ear heart rate monitoring, a feature already introduced in Apple’s Powerbeats Pro 2 earlier this year. This move aligns with Apple’s growing focus on integrating health and fitness capabilities into its wearable devices, positioning the AirPods Pro 3 as a potential game-changer for fitness-conscious users.
According to reports from MacRumors and Bloomberg’s Mark Gurman, the AirPods Pro 3 are expected to incorporate heart rate tracking, possibly using acoustic-based sensors or optical sensors similar to those in the Powerbeats Pro 2. Unlike wrist-based devices like the Apple Watch, in-ear heart rate monitoring could offer more accurate readings during intense workouts, as earbuds are less prone to movement-related inaccuracies. Apple’s recent research, in collaboration with the University of North Carolina, explored using AI-driven acoustic data analysis for heart rate estimation, suggesting a novel approach that could differentiate the AirPods Pro 3 from competitors.
In addition to heart rate tracking, rumors point to the inclusion of in-ear temperature sensing, a step up from the skin temperature sensors found in Apple Watches. This feature could provide more precise health metrics, appealing to users who rely on Apple’s ecosystem for comprehensive health monitoring. The AirPods Pro 3 are also expected to feature a new H3 chip, which promises enhanced audio processing, better connectivity with iPhones, and improved battery life. This chip could power advanced health-tracking algorithms, ensuring seamless data syncing with the Apple Health app.
The earbuds are likely to see upgrades in Active Noise Cancellation (ANC), building on the already impressive performance of the AirPods Pro 2. Sources suggest that Apple may refine the ANC technology used in the AirPods 4, which introduced ANC without ear tips, to deliver an even more immersive audio experience. A redesigned charging case and earbuds are also rumored, potentially making the device more compact while maintaining compatibility with MagSafe and Qi2 charging standards.
Leaked references in Apple’s iOS 26 beta code, including a new Bluetooth identifier (8239) and mentions of “AirPods Pro 3,” have fueled speculation about an imminent launch. Many analysts, including those from 9to5Mac, predict a September 2025 unveiling alongside the iPhone 17 lineup, aligning with Apple’s traditional fall event schedule. However, some reports, such as those from analyst Ming-Chi Kuo and Jeff Pu, suggest a possible delay to 2026, citing the complexity of integrating advanced features like infrared cameras for gesture control.
The AirPods Pro 3 are also expected to enhance tracking capabilities with Apple’s second-generation Ultra Wideband (UWB) chip, improving precision in the Find My app. While earlier rumors hinted at features like real-time conversation translation and a touchscreen charging case, some of these, such as Live Translation, have already been rolled out to existing AirPods models via iOS 26 updates.
As competition in the true wireless earbud market intensifies, with budget options gaining traction, Apple aims to maintain its dominance by blending premium audio with cutting-edge health features. The AirPods Pro 3 could appeal to both audiophiles and health-conscious consumers, reinforcing Apple’s ecosystem integration. With a potential price point of $249, consistent with previous models, the earbuds are poised to attract existing users looking to upgrade.
Disclaimer: This article is based on rumors, leaks, and reports from sources like MacRumors, 9to5Mac, Bloomberg, and posts on X. Information is subject to change, as Apple has not officially confirmed details about the AirPods Pro 3. Always verify with official announcements before making purchasing decisions.