Apple has unveiled the new AirPods Pro 3 alongside the iPhone 17 lineup, introducing health-centric sensors, live translation via Apple Intelligence, stronger ANC, and longer battery life, all at the same $249 price point with shipping from September 19. Pre-orders are live now, and Apple positions the Pro 3 as a major update over Pro 2, bringing on-device smarts and a more comfortable fit for all‑day use.
Key upgrades
AirPods Pro 3 add a built-in heart rate monitor (active during workouts), enabling basic fitness tracking without a watch, plus live translation powered by Apple Intelligence for real-time conversations when travelling or meeting multilingual teams. Apple claims “2x” ANC versus Pro 2 and “4x” versus the first-gen Pro, along with an improved fit and IP57 rating for sweat and water resistance.
Performance and battery
Apple highlights upgraded audio and spatial listening with tighter noise control, paired with 8 hours of listening per charge and improved transparency runtime, a step up from Pro 2’s typical figures in ANC mode. The headline combination of longer endurance and stronger ANC puts Pro 3 in a comfortable lead over mainstream rivals on noise suppression and smart features, according to early coverage.
Apple Intelligence features
Live Translation usesApple Intelligence to facilitate two-way conversations; users speak normally, and translations appear on the iPhone, designed for natural, real-world use cases like travel or cross-border meetings. This aligns with Apple’s broader AI rollout across devices, bringing practical, on-the-go assistance to everyday accessories like AirPods.
Price and availability
AirPods Pro 3 are available to preorder now at $249, with open sales slated for September 19 across launch markets; regional pricing and retail timings will vary based on local availability. Early Indian coverage indicates the same global pricing guidance and feature set, with Apple and local channels expected to confirm INR pricing as rollout progresses.
Competitive context
Unlike Galaxy Buds and Pixel Buds, AirPods Pro 3 add heart-rate sensing and system-level live translation, creating clear differentiation in health and AI-assisted communication while keeping the premium price unchanged. Broader media consensus points to Apple tightening its lead in ANC quality and wearable intelligence at the same MSRP.
FAQ
Q1: What’s the headline new feature?
A1: AirPods Pro 3 introduce a built-in heart rate monitor for workouts and live translation via Apple Intelligence, alongside stronger ANC and better fit.
Q2: How much do they cost and when do they ship?
A2: They are priced at $249 with pre-orders open now and shipments beginning September 19 in initial markets; regional pricing will follow local announcements.
Q3: How much better is the ANC?
A3: Apple is claiming 2x better ANC versus Pro 2 and 4x versus the first-gen AirPods Pro, paired with improved audio and spatial listening.
Q4: What’s the battery life like?
A4: Expect up to 8 hours of listening on a single charge, with improved transparency mode efficiency compared to prior generations.
Q5: Are they water and sweat resistant?
A5: Yes, AirPods Pro 3 carry an IP57 rating, making them suitable for workouts and daily use in more demanding conditions.