Apple introduces AirPods Pro 3 with Heart Rate Sensor, Real-Time Translation, and improved Active Noise Cancellation

Apple has unveiled the third generation of its premium wireless earbuds, marking a significant evolution for the AirPods Pro line. Rather than focusing solely on incremental audio improvements, the AirPods Pro 3 arrive with a mix of fitness, intelligence, and design upgrades aimed at broadening their role beyond music playback.

At the center of the update is a new health-focused capability: a built-in heart rate sensor that ties directly into Apple’s ecosystem of workout and wellness tools. With just the earbuds and an iPhone, users can monitor heart activity, track calories burned, and even complete their daily Fitness app rings, eliminating the need for an Apple Watch during lighter workouts.

Apple has also expanded its push into real-time translation, leveraging Apple Intelligence. The earbuds can now interpret conversations on the fly, supporting languages like English, French, German, Portuguese, and Spanish at launch. This feature could position AirPods Pro 3 as a practical travel companion rather than just an audio device.

On the performance front, Apple claims noise cancellation is dramatically stronger, up to four times more effective compared to the original model. Transparency mode playback has also been extended to 10 hours on a single charge, while listening with ANC engaged now lasts up to eight hours. These boosts allow for all-day use without frequent charging.

The hardware itself has been subtly refined. AirPods Pro 3 are slightly smaller, with redesigned tips that aim for a steadier fit, including new foam-infused options in five sizes. The earphones also now carry an IP57 rating, improving durability against sweat and water exposure.

AirPods Pro 3 will retail for $249 and open for pre-orders immediately, with general availability set for September 19. With stronger health integration, advanced translation tools, and meaningful endurance gains, Apple is framing this generation of AirPods Pro not just as earbuds, but as a more versatile extension of the iPhone experience.