The AirPods Pro 3 represent a significant enhancement over their predecessor, the AirPods Pro 2. While Apple has consistently introduced new features to the AirPods lineup over the past three years, the design has remained largely unchanged since the original model debuted in 2019. With the launch of the AirPods Pro 3, however, users will notice that the most impactful improvements lie beneath the surface. After a hands-on experience following the iPhone 17 launch, I delved deeper into the innovative features of the AirPods Pro 3, including the enhanced active noise cancellation (ANC), Live Translation, and heart-rate monitoring capabilities.
Apple boasts that the ANC on the AirPods Pro 3 effectively blocks twice as much noise compared to the AirPods Pro 2, and up to four times more than the original AirPods Pro. This impressive performance is due largely to the incorporation of ultra-low noise microphones and advanced computational audio technology. Additionally, the new foam-infused ear tips play a crucial role in enhancing passive noise isolation, which effectively diminishes distractions, particularly high-frequency sounds like human voices. During my testing, I found that I often needed an Apple representative to tap me on the shoulder just to get my attention, as the ANC was so effective at muting ambient conversation.
The overall performance of noise cancellation on the AirPods Pro 3 is commendable. Whether simulating airplane noise or the sounds of a bustling café, the earbuds successfully minimized unwanted distractions. This was particularly appreciated during a hectic demo area outside the keynote, where the quiet provided a much-needed break from the surrounding chaos.
Following the introduction of Live Translation in iOS 26 at WWDC, I was initially disappointed to find that the feature was not initially available for the AirPods. However, it was evident that Apple intended to incorporate this functionality into the new AirPods Pro 3. Similar to Google's Pixel Buds, Apple's Live Translation relies on a connected iPhone to process conversations via the Translate app. What’s exciting is that activating Live Translation is seamless—you can simply press and hold both AirPods, invoke Siri, or set a shortcut to the Action Button.
Live Translation is compatible with the AirPods Pro 3, AirPods Pro 2, and AirPods 4 with ANC, all of which are equipped with the H2 chip. During my demo, I witnessed Live Translation in action as it quickly converted spoken Spanish into English, which Siri then conveyed through the earbuds. While there is a slight delay in translation, this is to be expected since audio is processed on the iPhone. Additionally, real-time transcription appears on the screen of your iPhone, making it a useful feature for conversations. The automatic ANC activation during translation significantly improves the experience, allowing you to hear the translated audio clearly.
Another noteworthy feature of the AirPods Pro 3 is the inclusion of heart-rate monitoring. This capability, which Apple first introduced with the Beats Powerbeats Pro 2, utilizes a photoplethysmography (PPG) sensor to measure blood flow through light absorption. However, it’s important to note that heart rate statistics are only visible in the Fitness app during workouts, limiting its availability in other applications or widgets.
The heart-rate monitoring capability works in conjunction with an array of sensors, including accelerometers, gyroscopes, and GPS, as well as a new AI model, to track data across 50 different workouts. My brief testing involved a simple three-minute walk, during which my live heart rate was displayed alongside other metrics such as distance, average pace, and calories burned. The data was summarized in a detailed workout overview upon completion, providing users with valuable insights into their fitness performance.
Apple has made significant strides in audio performance with the AirPods Pro 3, focusing on improving air flow to enhance sound quality. The redesigned venting system in these earbuds allows for superior audio delivery, while the ear tips have been adjusted to direct sound more effectively into the ear. Coupled with Adaptive EQ, these modifications result in noticeably deeper bass and a broader soundstage, providing a more immersive listening experience.
The acoustics team at Apple has developed finely-tuned chambers to optimize air flow within the earbuds. This redesign led to an increase in the size of the vent system, which is now nearly double that of the AirPods Pro 2. To complement this, Apple has also made adjustments to the driver/transducer, ensuring that the necessary frequencies are achieved. During my testing, I used Maggie Rogers’ “Alaska” to assess the audio quality, and the improvements were striking. The enhanced separation of sounds and increased detail made the listening experience far more engaging.
In conclusion, the AirPods Pro 3 deliver substantial advancements in technology, from enhanced ANC and Live Translation capabilities to heart-rate monitoring and improved audio quality. These features make them a formidable contender in the crowded market of wireless earbuds, catering to both casual listeners and fitness enthusiasts alike.
