Apple’s September 9 event is shaping up to be more than just the launch of the iPhone 17 lineup. Reports suggest the company is preparing to introduce the AirPods Pro 3, the first major refresh of its premium earbuds in nearly three years. Packed with potential health-tracking features, upgraded chips, and even infrared cameras, the new AirPods Pro may be Apple’s boldest step forward in wireless audio.
Anticipated Announcement at Apple’s September Event
Apple has a track record of unveiling new audio products alongside its flagship iPhones, and 2025 might be no different. Rumors first surfaced earlier this year, with Bloomberg’s Mark Gurman hinting that the AirPods Pro 3 were “months away” from release. That timeline aligns perfectly with Apple’s fall keynote.
However, not all analysts agree. Ming-Chi Kuo, a well-known Apple supply chain expert, has suggested that some of the more advanced features—particularly those linked to infrared cameras—might not be ready until 2026. Still, the possibility of at least a partial unveiling at the upcoming event has kept excitement high.
Design Refresh After Years of Familiarity
The AirPods Pro line has kept its familiar look for several years, with only minor refinements between generations. The third edition is expected to finally introduce a new design, making the earbuds more compact, lightweight, and comfortable.
The accompanying charging case is rumored to be slimmer than before, with USB-C charging and Bluetooth 5.4 support for improved connectivity. The internal H3 chip could deliver stronger noise cancellation and better power efficiency, taking performance a step beyond the AirPods Pro 2.
Health and Wellness Features in Your Ears
Apple has been steadily transforming its wearables into health-focused devices, and the AirPods Pro 3 may be the next leap. Reports point to the integration of in-ear heart rate monitoring and temperature sensors, allowing users to track wellness metrics without relying on a smartwatch.
If accurate, this would position the AirPods Pro 3 not just as earbuds but as part of Apple’s broader health ecosystem, syncing seamlessly with the Health app for real-time monitoring.
Smarter Controls and Gesture Innovations
Controlling your AirPods may also feel very different this time. A patent filed by Apple describes a system that supports vertical swipe gestures on the earbuds, enabling users to adjust volume without touching traditional capacitive sensors. This design could make it easier to use controls in cold weather, even while wearing gloves.
Additional features expected through iOS 26 integration include:
- Automatic sleep detection to pause playback when the wearer nods off.
- Remote camera control, letting users trigger iPhone or iPad cameras using the earbud stem.
- Head movement gestures for hands-free operation.
- Real-time call translation, a feature that could be game-changing for travelers and global professionals.
Infrared Cameras and AI: The Big Leap
One of the most futuristic upgrades linked to the AirPods Pro 3 is the potential addition of infrared (IR) cameras. According to multiple reports, these sensors could unlock AI-driven features, gesture recognition, and advanced spatial audio enhancements.
While this technology sounds revolutionary, it may also be the reason some analysts expect delays. Gurman suggests Apple is testing these features extensively, while Kuo believes mass production won’t happen until 2026. This means the AirPods Pro 3 might debut in phases, with the cameras coming in a later update.
Expected Price and Availability
If the AirPods Pro 3 are revealed next week, Apple is likely to position them close to the $249 price point of the current model. Given the rumored upgrades, a modest price increase would not be surprising.
The exact release window remains uncertain. If Apple pushes ahead at the September 9 event, pre-orders could open alongside the iPhone 17 lineup. If not, fans may need to wait until next year or even 2026 for the complete version of these advanced earbuds.
Why AirPods Pro 3 Could Be a Game-Changer
From health tracking to infrared-powered AI, the AirPods Pro 3 are shaping up to be far more than a standard pair of wireless earbuds. They could evolve into a personal health device, productivity tool, and immersive audio accessory—all in one.
Whether Apple reveals the full package next week or takes a staggered approach, the AirPods Pro 3 are likely to redefine what consumers expect from premium wireless earbuds.
