Apple may be gearing up to launch its most advanced wireless earbuds yet — the AirPods Pro 3. While conflicting reports have surrounded the release date and feature set, a recent iOS 26 developer beta may have just revealed the most concrete clue yet. A reference to “AirPods Pro 3” was spotted in the source code, hinting at an imminent launch — possibly alongside the iPhone 17 this September.
iOS 26 Source Code Mentions AirPods Pro 3
A report by MacRumors contributor Steve Moser highlights a buried string in the iOS 26 developer beta referring to “AirPods Pro 3” under the headphone UI framework. While not an official confirmation, Apple has a history of hinting at new products through code references prior to launch.
Additionally, another string uncovered by MacRumors analyst Aaron reads:
“This task requires Apple AirPods Pro 2 or later”
With no “later” model officially available, this reference has sparked widespread speculation about the upcoming third-generation AirPods Pro.
Expected Features: Camera Tech, Health Tools, and Live Translation
Rumors suggest the AirPods Pro 3 could pack significant upgrades over the AirPods Pro 2:
- Faster Audio Chip: Potentially better Active Noise Cancellation (ANC) and improved sound quality.
- In-Ear Health Sensors: Apple is reportedly testing heart rate monitoring and ear-canal temperature sensing, offering more accurate readings than even the Apple Watch.
- Live Translation: The AirPods Pro 3 may work with the iPhone’s Translate app for real-time multilingual conversation support directly through the earbuds.
- Redesigned Case and Buds: Inspired by the AirPods 4, the Pro 3 may feature a sleeker case, concealed LED, and capacitive pairing button.
Conflicting Release Timeline: 2025 or 2026?
What Analysts Are Saying:
- Mark Gurman (Bloomberg): Believes Apple may launch the AirPods Pro 3 in late 2025, but not with infrared camera tech just yet.
- Ming-Chi Kuo: Suggests 2026 as a more realistic launch timeline for the camera-equipped variant.
However, with multiple mentions now surfacing in official software, a 2025 launch looks more plausible, especially if aligned with the iPhone 17 reveal event in September 2025.
What About the Infrared Camera?
One of the most debated features is the infrared camera system, which could enhance spatial computing experiences, possibly for Apple Vision Pro users. However, sources suggest this tech might not be ready until 2026 or beyond, meaning the first AirPods Pro 3 release could skip it.
Release Pattern Suggests iPhone 17 Debut
Here’s a look at Apple’s previous AirPods Pro launch timeline:
| Model | Launch Year | Launched With |
|---|---|---|
| AirPods Pro (Gen 1) | 2019 | iPhone 11 |
| AirPods Pro (Gen 2) | 2022 | iPhone 14 |
| AirPods Pro (Gen 3) | Expected 2025 | Likely with iPhone 17 |
