Although the AirPods Pro 3 weren't released until fall 2025, Apple is already working on an enhanced version with infrared cameras, hand gestures, and a new chip. It is expected to launch in fall 2026.
Last fall, Apple delivered a solid update with the AirPods Pro 3 – improved sound, a U2 chip in the charging case, and new health features. However, according to multiple sources, the next generation is already in the works. This isn't a traditional fourth generation, but rather a premium version of the AirPods Pro 3, which will be positioned alongside the existing model with significantly enhanced hardware – similar to how Apple already offers two tiers of AirPods 4.
Infrared Cameras for AI Functions
The most striking new feature is the infrared cameras, which are to be integrated directly into the earbuds. These are not for taking photos or videos, but for environmental sensing for Apple's AI platform. The tiny IR sensors, in conjunction with Apple Intelligence and the new Siri, are intended to provide context-related information about the wearer's surroundings.
The concept is reminiscent of Visual Intelligence, which Apple already implements on the iPhone with the camera – only hands-free and without having to take a device out of your pocket. The AirPods would thus become a kind of passive AI sensor that understands the outside world and can react to it.
AirPods Pro: Hand gestures instead of pressure-sensitive stems
The infrared cameras could also enable a new form of operation. According to the Chinese leaker Instant Digital, Apple is considering replacing the pressure-sensitive stems with hand gestures. Users could then control playback, answer calls, or switch between noise cancellation and transparency mode with hand movements – without having to touch the AirPods or any other device.
Whether Apple will completely abandon the stick controls or offer both concepts in parallel remains to be seen. Given that Apple has expanded the stick controls to include over ten different functions in recent months, a complete abandonment would be surprising.
H3 Chip for lower latency and better sound
While the AirPods Pro 3, despite all the new features, will continue to use the H2 chip, which has been in use since 2022, the new version is expected to receive the long-awaited H3 chip. Bloomberg reporter Mark Gurman reported last fall that Apple's chip team was working on an H3 chip that would offer lower latency and improved audio quality.
The new chip would be necessary to provide the additional processing power for the infrared cameras and AI processing. At the same time, it should maintain battery life at an acceptable level despite the increased demands. An overview of Apple's AirPods roadmap for 2026 and 2027 shows how the H3 fits into the broader product strategy.
Market launch in autumn 2026
Since the new AI features of the AirPods Pro will likely rely on the revamped Siri, which isn't expected until iOS 27 this fall, a launch before September is unlikely. Historically, Apple has preferred to unveil new AirPods at its annual iPhone event in September – this timeframe is also considered the most likely option for the new premium version.
The new model is expected to be priced above the current AirPods Pro 3. Initial estimates suggest a price of around €299, which is about €50 more than the standard version. This would further close the gap between the AirPods Pro and the significantly more expensive AirPods Max.
AirPods Pro with camera: From headphones to AI platform
The planned innovations show that Apple intends to position the AirPods Pro far beyond traditional headphone functions in the long term. Infrared cameras, gesture control, and AI integration will transform the earbuds into a standalone input device within the Apple ecosystem – a development closely related to the Vision Pro and the rumored Apple Glasses.
Those satisfied with the current AirPods Pro 3 will continue to receive a top-notch product. However, those waiting for the next generation should be rewarded in fall 2026. The best products for you: Our Amazon storefront offers a wide selection of accessories, including those compatible with HomeKit. (Image: Shutterstock / photoschmidt)
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