Apple announces new AirPods Pro with heart rate monitor, improved noise cancellation, more

Apple has unveiled the third generation of AirPods Pro, promising better audio, enhanced fitness tracking and longer battery life.

The new earbuds double the Active Noise Cancellation of AirPods Pro 2 and offer four times the performance of the original version. Apple says they deliver “the world’s best in-ear ANC”.

AirPods Pro 3 feature a redesigned airflow system to boost sound quality, alongside a new acoustic architecture and next-generation Adaptive EQ that widens the soundstage and improves clarity.

Each earbud is smaller than before, with five ear tip sizes — including a new XXS option — for a more secure fit. They are also IP57 rated for sweat and water resistance.

For the first time, AirPods include a custom-built heart rate sensor, capable of tracking more than 50 workout types in the Fitness app on iPhone.

A new workout experience allows users to measure calorie burn and monitor performance, even without an Apple Watch.

Apple Fitness+ subscribers can also view real-time metrics such as heart rate and calories onscreen during workouts.

AirPods Pro 3 introduce Live Translation, enabling face-to-face conversations across different languages.

The feature launches in English, French, German, Portuguese and Spanish, with Italian, Japanese, Korean and Chinese (simplified) coming later this year.

Apple has expanded its hearing support tools, with automatic Conversation Boost for noisy environments and a refined hearing test feature.

Battery life rises from six hours to eight hours with Active Noise Cancellation enabled, and up to 10 hours in Transparency mode.

AirPods Pro 3 are made with 40% recycled materials, including 100% recycled cobalt in the battery. Packaging is now entirely fibre-based.

AirPods Pro 3 remain priced at $249. Pre-orders open today, with availability starting Friday, September 19.