AirPods Pro 3 Release Date, Specs, Features, Price and Everything We Know So Far

Apple is preparing to launch its next-generation AirPods Pro 3 in 2026, marking its most significant step forward in wireless audio innovation.

The new model is expected to include Apple's powerful H3 chip, AI-driven sound personalisation, and infrared sensors that work with the Vision Pro headset, blurring the line between sound and spatial computing.

According to analysts cited by Bloomberg and MacRumors, Apple is developing prototypes that can intelligently respond to users' surroundings. The company's goal is to evolve the AirPods Pro from mere earbuds into context-aware, mixed-reality companions within its growing ecosystem.

Smarter Sound with the H3 Chip

The AirPods Pro 3 will feature the all-new H3 processor, delivering enhanced sound fidelity, improved wireless performance, and reduced latency. It builds on the success of the H2 chip launched in 2022 and is expected to enable on-device artificial intelligence, allowing the earbuds to adapt to changing environments automatically.

'The H3 chip is engineered to make listening more human—more responsive and intelligent,' a source familiar with Apple's plans told Bloomberg.

This evolution could see Apple merge the personal audio experience with real-time computing, mirroring the neural processing capabilities seen in the iPhone 15 Pro and Apple Watch Series 10.

Infrared Cameras for Gesture and Spatial Awareness

A key upgrade involves infrared cameras integrated into each earbud. Analyst Ming-Chi Kuo reports these sensors will detect hand gestures, proximity, and head motion,unlocking in-air gesture control for users wearing the Vision Pro headset.

This technology will enhance spatial audio precision, mapping physical environments to simulate sound direction and depth in 3D. It also strengthens Apple's goal of a tightly connected ecosystem, where the AirPods Pro 3, iPhone, and Vision Pro operate in harmony.

Key Features:

• H3 chip with on-device AI audio tuning
• Infrared gesture recognition sensors
• Vision Pro mixed-reality integration
• Adaptive noise control and transparency modes

The technology could also enhance spatial awareness, mapping the listener's surroundings and fine-tuning sound placement in 3D environments. This integration supports Apple's broader ecosystem strategy, linking its audio products more tightly with its mixed-reality platform to create a unified sensory experience.

If implemented, the AirPods Pro 3 would become the first wireless earbuds designed to function as a mixed-reality companion, blending audio precision with motion and distance detection.

Release Date and Expected Price

Apple is expected to begin mass production in late 2025, followed by a global launch in 2026.The AirPods Pro 3 price is expected to start around £279, similar to its predecessor, although additional hardware may push it closer to £299.

Launch Timeline:

• Production Start: Late 2025
• Official Launch: Q1–Q2 2026
• Price Range: £279–£299

Analysts predict Apple will justify any increase through measurable performance and integration improvements across its wearables lineup.

What It Matters

The AirPods Pro 3 are shaping up to be far more than an audio upgrade. With the H3 chip, infrared sensors, and AI-powered enhancements, Apple appears poised to bridge the gap between personal audio and immersive computing.

If these reports are accurate, the 2026 AirPods Pro 3 could redefine what premium wireless earbuds can do, evolving from a listening device into an intelligent, spatially aware extension of Apple's mixed-reality future.

As Apple prepares its 2026 launch, the AirPods Pro 3 are expected to become the benchmark for premium wireless audio—smart, adaptive, and deeply integrated with Apple's wider hardware ecosystem.