When it comes to surprises, Apple rarely dazzles with flashy features; instead, they often make subtle yet impactful changes that catch us off guard. A prime example of this approach is the recent introduction of heart rate accuracy in the new AirPods Pro 3. This year's release marks a significant improvement over earlier models, particularly highlighted by the disappointing performance of the PowerBeats 2 Pro earlier this year. The AirPods Pro 3 not only enhance sound quality and noise reduction but also integrate a range of fitness features that make them a game changer for sports enthusiasts.
Visually, the AirPods Pro 3 may appear almost identical to the previous generation, but subtle differences make a significant impact. Here’s a quick comparison of the features that set them apart:
Added heart rate sensing in-ear 2x more noise cancellation than AirPods Pro 2 (and 4x more than AirPods Pro 1) Improved transparency mode and Adaptive EQ Redesigned for a smaller fit with new foam-infused eartips Expanded eartip sizes, now including XXS Updated to Apple’s U2 chip for enhanced Find My support Increased water resistance from IP54 to IP57 Enhanced battery life: 8 hours in ANC mode, 10 hours in transparency mode New workout recording features in the Apple Fitness appThe price remains competitive at $249 USD, which is commendable amid rising costs this year.
Upon unboxing the AirPods Pro 3, you'll find an assortment of eartips, now including the new XXS size. It's worth noting that there’s no USB-C charging cable included, which may not be a concern for most users who likely have one on hand.
The AirPods Pro 3 offer a refreshing fit that feels different yet comfortable. Once paired with an iPhone, users can easily switch between noise cancellation, transparency, and adaptive modes. Personally, I find myself gravitating towards noise cancellation, especially in busy environments. The settings are extensive, allowing users to customize their experience, including toggling heart rate monitoring.
The noise cancellation feature performs admirably, even in chaotic settings like children’s pool parties. While it may not completely silence all sounds, it creates a significant buffer, allowing for more focused activities like video editing or conference calls. However, it’s important to note that when exercising outdoors, the noise cancellation can struggle to filter out wind noise.
One of the standout features in the AirPods Pro 3 is the Live Language Translation. This feature allows for near-real-time translation during conversations, though it performs best with slower speech patterns. The Apple Fitness app has also been enhanced with a dedicated tab for recording workouts, which integrates data from the AirPods heart rate sensor.
The integration of heart rate sensing technology in the AirPods Pro 3 is particularly noteworthy. During workouts, the device utilizes infrared sensors to track heart rate accurately, offering insights directly within the Apple Fitness app. This is a significant step forward, especially compared to the PowerBeats 2 Pro, which struggled in this area.
In my tests, the AirPods Pro 3 excelled in various workout scenarios, from indoor cycling to outdoor running. The heart rate accuracy was impressive, even during interval training, where many devices often falter. This level of performance positions the AirPods Pro 3 as a strong contender in the fitness space, although the lack of standard Bluetooth heart rate signals may limit compatibility with some fitness equipment.
In conclusion, the AirPods Pro 3 not only deliver exceptional sound quality and noise cancellation but also bring groundbreaking heart rate monitoring capabilities to the table. While I wish Apple had included standard Bluetooth heart rate profiles, the overall performance and features make them a valuable tool for fitness enthusiasts. If you’re looking for high-quality headphones that seamlessly integrate into your fitness routine, the AirPods Pro 3 is undoubtedly a top choice.
