Apple's latest innovation, the AirPods Pro 3, is set to redefine the in-ear headphone experience. This new model boasts significant enhancements over its predecessors, particularly in the areas of active noise cancellation (ANC), live translation capabilities, and heart rate monitoring. During the recent iPhone and Apple Watch announcement, Apple made several compelling claims about the performance of the AirPods Pro 3, which are yet to be validated through third-party testing.
One of the standout features of the AirPods Pro 3 is its remarkable active noise cancellation. Apple asserts that the new model offers twice the ANC performance compared to the AirPods Pro 2 and four times more than the original AirPods Pro. This significant upgrade promises users an immersive listening experience, effectively blocking out unwanted background noise and allowing them to focus on their music or podcasts.
In addition to improved noise cancellation, Apple claims that voices will sound more natural when using the Transparency mode. This mode is designed to let users hear ambient sounds while wearing the earbuds. Past users have noted that earlier versions of Transparency sometimes made voices sound filtered or artificial. The enhancements in the AirPods Pro 3 should address these concerns, providing a more authentic listening experience.
Battery life is another area where the AirPods Pro 3 shines. Apple states that these earbuds can last up to eight hours of continuous music playback with ANC activated and up to ten hours when using the Transparency mode with hearing aid features enabled. This improvement ensures that users can enjoy their favorite audio content throughout the day without frequent recharging.
Perhaps the most exciting new feature is the live translation capability, which Apple refers to as Apple Intelligence. This technology resembles the futuristic universal translator seen in science fiction. When activated, the AirPods Pro 3 will listen to conversations in a foreign language and provide real-time translations through a synthesized voice directly in the user’s ears. For those who prefer a visual aid, the Translate app on their iPhone can also display translations in text form.
In addition to audio enhancements, the AirPods Pro 3 now comes equipped with a heart rate sensor. This feature is particularly beneficial for fitness enthusiasts, offering integration with the Health and Fitness app for tracking workouts. The new sensor works alongside the existing accelerometer and machine learning algorithms to accurately calculate heart rates during exercise sessions.
With an upgrade to an IP57 rating, the AirPods Pro 3 now boasts enhanced sweat and water resistance, making them suitable for workouts and outdoor activities. Users can feel confident using these earbuds in various environments without worrying about damage from moisture.
Apple has also focused on comfort and fit with the AirPods Pro 3. The new model features a subtle redesign and now offers ear tip attachments in five different sizes, compared to just three in previous versions. This ensures a more personalized fit for a wider range of users, enhancing both comfort and sound quality.
The AirPods Pro 3 will retail for $249, consistent with the pricing of its predecessors. Preorders have commenced, and the earbuds are set to ship and become available in stores on September 19. With their innovative features and improvements, the AirPods Pro 3 promises to be a must-have for audio enthusiasts and fitness lovers alike.
