Since their introduction, the AirPods Pro have represented Apple's premium status in the field of wireless in-ear headphones. More technology, more features, and a higher price have always been part of the Pro label. Apple is continuing this approach this year as well. A new high-end model, the AirPods Pro 3, is expected to be released, and concrete price rumors and technical details are already circulating.
At Apple, the "Pro" designation is clearly defined. It stands for devices that stand out from the standard in terms of both functionality and price. This applies to iPhones, iPads, and Macs, as well as the AirPods Pro. For the third generation, Apple seems to be further sharpening this distinction by planning two different Pro models for the first time.
Two models of the AirPods Pro 3
Rumors suggest that Apple plans to offer the AirPods Pro 3 in two versions. The model presented will come without additional sensors, while the more expensive model will be equipped with new hardware. This would mark the first time Apple has introduced a clear tiered system within its Pro line.
This strategy isn't new. The AirPods 4 already come in two versions. The cheaper entry-level model costs €149 and doesn't include active noise cancellation. The more expensive version with ANC costs €199. The price difference is exactly €50.
IR cameras as a key innovation
The biggest technical innovation of the second-generation AirPods Pro 3 is said to be the integrated infrared cameras. These IR sensors are not intended for taking photos or videos. Instead, they are meant to enable new Apple intelligence features and significantly expand the interaction between hardware and software.
The main focus is on the next generation of Siri. Using the cameras, the AirPods Pro could capture what's in their field of view. This would make it possible to ask Siri questions about objects, texts, or situations completely hands-free, without having to take the iPhone out of a pocket. Internally, this feature is considered a potential unique selling point.
Siri and AI as the key to the experience
The upcoming Siri version is set to become a central component of the new user experience. By combining voice control and visual recognition, the new AirPods Pro 3 could understand significantly more context than before. Instead of simply reacting to spoken commands, Siri would be able to incorporate what it sees into its responses.
It is precisely this combination of AI, sensors and audio that clearly sets the new Pro model apart from previous generations and explains why Apple is charging a significant premium here.
The rumored price of the AirPods Pro 3
Leaker Instant Digital has provided concrete pricing information for the first time shortly before the expected market launch. According to his information, the AirPods Pro 3 with cameras will cost "over 2000 yuan." This currently equates to approximately US$286.
Since a price above this threshold is explicitly mentioned, a retail price of just under $299 is considered likely. This would make the AirPods Pro 3 with cameras around $50 more expensive than the standard model without this technology. This price difference corresponds exactly to the difference Apple already uses with the AirPods 4.
Apple's new premium positioning for the AirPods Pro
With the AirPods Pro 3, Apple is clearly pursuing a more premium strategy than before. Two models, new sensors, and a significantly higher starting price for the high-end model demonstrate the direction the Pro series is heading. The rumored price of around $299 positions the AirPods Pro more firmly than ever in the premium segment. Whether the new AI features justify the higher price should become clear with the official launch. However, it's already certain that Apple is consistently expanding the Pro label. The best products for you: Our Amazon storefront offers a wide selection of accessories, including those for HomeKit. (Image: Shutterstock / photoschmidt)
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