Apple’s annual September event is around the corner, and while excitement is building for the iPhone 17 lineup and new Apple Watch models, fans hoping for a next-generation AirPods Pro reveal may be in for a letdown.
AirPods Pro 3 Timeline Pushed to 2026
According to renowned Apple analyst Ming-Chi Kuo, the anticipated AirPods Pro 3 won’t see significant upgrades this year. This contradicts earlier reports suggesting the inclusion of enhanced Active Noise Cancellation, a new H3 chip, and even health-focused features like a heart-rate sensor. Kuo now projects that a major redesign—complete with infrared camera sensors—is slated for 2026.
These sensors are expected to support immersive experiences, especially in synergy with Apple’s Vision Pro headset, opening new possibilities in spatial computing. This integration could mark a turning point in how users interact with their devices in augmented and mixed reality environments.
Current Lineup and Incremental Enhancements
Though hardware changes remain stagnant, Apple has continued to improve the functionality of existing AirPods Pro models through regular software updates. Recent enhancements include Adaptive Audio, Personalized Volume, and support for hearing correction—positioning the AirPods Pro 2 as certified hearing aids for users with mild to moderate hearing loss.
Meanwhile, users of the AirPods Max shouldn’t expect a redesign anytime soon either. Kuo notes that the premium headphones are unlikely to receive substantial updates before 2027, leaving the current 2020-era design in place for the foreseeable future.
What’s Next for Apple
Despite the quiet AirPods year, Apple’s product roadmap remains packed. The iPhone 17 series is set to launch in 2025, potentially introducing the “iPhone 17 Air,” a slimmer variant, and intensifying speculation around a high-end “iPhone Ultra.”
As Apple sharpens its focus on spatial computing and wearable tech integration, the delayed AirPods Pro 3 may be part of a broader strategy to align next-gen accessories with its evolving ecosystem. For now, users will need to rely on software updates and minor feature rollouts until more transformative changes arrive in 2026.
For further details, visit the Apple Newsroom.