September 9, 2025, 6:30 pm | Read time: 3 minutes
At its September 2025 keynote, Apple not only unveiled new iPhones and Apple Watches but also introduced the AirPods Pro 3. The in-ear headphones come with numerous innovations.
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With the AirPods Pro 3, Apple is bringing the third generation of its popular in-ear headphones to the market. The headphones offer improved sound, powerful active noise canceling, and for the first time, a heartbeat sensor. These features are complemented by live translations via Apple Intelligence and a redesigned look with longer battery life. The AirPods Pro 3 will be released on September 19, 2025, priced at around 250 euros, with pre-orders available from September 9.
The AirPods Pro 3 are Apple’s response to the growing demands for modern in-ear headphones. The manufacturer has not only redesigned the casing but also thoroughly revamped the technology inside. According to Apple, over 10,000 ears were scanned to adapt to various ear shapes. At the same time, the weight was reduced, and the battery life extended from six to eight hours. Thanks to IP57 certification, the new Pro models are now also protected against dust and water–even swimming is possible with them.
New Design and Longer Battery Life
The revised shape is intended to increase comfort during long use. Additionally, Apple includes five different tip sizes to ensure a custom fit. The battery life without the charging case increases to eight hours. The case itself provides additional power, keeping the headphones ready for use over extended periods.
Sound and Spatial Experience with the AirPods Pro 3
Apple promises significant improvements in sound quality. An optimized airflow is said to make instruments more precise and voices clearer. The spatial sound has also been refined, according to the company, to enable a more intense three-dimensional listening experience. Whether the sound enhancement is truly noticeable will have to be determined by independent tests.
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Stronger Noise Cancellation
Apple aims to set new standards in active noise cancellation. The ANC is said to be twice as strong as in the AirPods Pro 2 and offers four times the performance compared to the first generation. This is made possible by quieter microphones and new foam tips that promise better sealing.
AI-Supported Live Translation
Another new feature is the integration of Apple Intelligence for nearly simultaneous translations. Conversations can be transmitted directly in real-time, with responses also automatically translated and displayed on the iPhone. According to Apple, the function works best when both conversation partners are wearing the AirPods Pro 3. Whether the translation will be available in Germany from the start remains uncertain.
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Heartbeat Sensor for Fitness Data
For the first time, a heartbeat sensor is being introduced to the AirPods series with the new headphones. This sensor measures the light absorption of blood flow using infrared light up to 256 times per second. Together with other sensors like accelerometers, gyroscopes, and GPS, up to 50 sports can be tracked, heart rate monitored, and calorie consumption calculated. Whether additional vital signs can be recorded remains unclear.
Price and Availability
The AirPods Pro 3 will be released on September 19, 2025. Pre-orders are available starting September 9, 2025. The price for the new model is around 250 euros.