Introduction
Apple enthusiasts, rejoice! The next generation of Apple’s wireless audio powerhouse — the AirPods Pro 3 — has been spotted in the code of iOS 26 Beta 1. According to reports, this model may launch in the second half of 2025 alongside the much-anticipated iPhone 17 series. This leak, discovered by MacRumors contributor Steve Moser, is creating buzz across the tech community.
Where Was AirPods Pro 3 Found?
The mention of “AirPods Pro 3” was uncovered within a UI framework in the iOS 26 Developer Beta 1, which Apple seeded shortly after WWDC 2025. While the company didn’t announce new AirPods during its keynote, the leak suggests Apple is quietly preparing to launch an updated version of its popular Pro earphones later this year.
Expected Features and Hardware Upgrades
Although Apple has remained tight-lipped, early reports suggest the AirPods Pro 3 will receive incremental upgrades over the 2nd Gen model, which was launched in September 2022. Key expected features include:
- Upgraded H2 Chip: Enhanced performance, lower latency, and better connectivity
- Improved ANC (Active Noise Cancellation): Smarter adaptive tuning for noise environments
- Battery Life Boost: Extended usage time on a single charge
- Enhanced Transparency Mode with voice prioritization
Apple May Not Go All-Out Until 2026
While the AirPods Pro 3 are expected to feature only moderate hardware changes this year, a more radical redesign is rumored for 2026. According to reports, Apple is working on an AirPods variant equipped with infrared (IR) cameras to enhance spatial awareness and interaction, possibly tied into future Apple Vision or AR/VR applications.
Production and India Expansion
Apple continues to ramp up its manufacturing capabilities in India. As per a recent report, Apple supplier Foxconn will begin AirPods production in India later this year. This aligns with Apple’s broader strategy to diversify supply chains and reduce dependence on China. Read more about this shift here: Foxconn to Begin AirPods Production in India.
AirPods Pro 2 vs AirPods Pro 3: What’s the Difference?
Here’s a quick comparison of what we know so far:
| Feature | AirPods Pro 2 | AirPods Pro 3 (Expected) |
|---|---|---|
| Chip | H2 | Upgraded H2 (Rev 2) |
| ANC | Very Good | Improved Adaptive ANC |
| Battery | Up to 6 hours | Likely 7–8 hours |
| Camera | No | No (Camera AirPods due 2026) |
Launch Timeline and Expectations
Given Apple’s release cycle, the AirPods Pro 3 will likely debut in September 2025 alongside the iPhone 17 lineup. Historically, Apple has avoided revealing AirPods in June WWDC keynotes, instead saving hardware for its fall events.
Until then, the iOS 26 beta leaks give us the first solid evidence that the Pro 3 is in active development and almost ready to hit the market.
Conclusion
The discovery of AirPods Pro 3 in iOS 26 Beta 1 is an exciting hint of what’s to come. With subtle but meaningful upgrades, better ANC, improved battery life, and the upgraded H2 chip, Apple is preparing to keep its dominance in the true wireless stereo (TWS) market. Stay tuned for more updates as we approach Apple’s fall event.
For a deep dive into the current generation, read our full AirPods Pro (2nd Gen) review.
