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Apple fans are eagerly awaiting fall—the traditional big Apple event. New iPhones are a given, but uncertainty has suddenly arisen regarding the AirPods Pro 3. A new report from analyst Ming-Chi Kuo has shaken up expectations. According to him, the next AirPods Pro model could be delayed until 2026. But upon closer inspection, this statement isn't as clear-cut as it seems at first glance. There are good reasons to continue to believe an unveiling this year.
The AirPods Pro 3 are among Apple's most anticipated new products. If you use the AirPods Pro 2 daily, you know how good they are—and how exciting potential upgrades would be. A launch in fall 2025 was long considered certain. It was all the more surprising when Kuo questioned this timeline last week. But if you take a closer look at the report , you'll see: things aren't quite that clear. On the contrary—many indications point to Apple delivering as early as September.
Kuo’s formulation is anything but clear
The report that has been making the rounds comes from Ming-Chi Kuo – an analyst who is often right but not always clear. He writes:
The AirPods may not be updated before 2026.
This statement leaves some room for interpretation. "Possibly" isn't a definite no. It's a hedge. Kuo also speaks of "significant updates." The word "significant" is a flexible term—a new design, minor improvements in battery life, or new sensor features could already be considered a significant update from Apple's perspective.
- Another striking detail: In the same report , Kuo mentions the AirPods Max—including their full name. For the AirPods Pro, however, the word "Pro" is completely omitted. This could be an oversight, but it could also be an indication that his statement doesn't refer to the Pro models at all.
Software leak points to new hardware
In addition to Kuo's vague report, there are solid hints of new models. Code was found in a recently released Apple software release that suggests new AirPods models. Such discoveries are usually a reliable signal that a new product is not far away. Apple doesn't integrate new hardware into code for fun—that usually happens shortly before a product launch.
No retreats from Gurman or Kosutami
Bloomberg's Mark Gurman predicted a 2025 release for the AirPods Pro 3 some time ago. He hasn't revised his prediction since. Kosutami, another well-known leaker, also recently weighed in – albeit with a brief "soon." Sure, that's vague, but at least it doesn't contradict the previous expectation of a market launch this year.
The rhythm suggests an autumn launch
Apple has so far updated the AirPods Pro in a fairly clear three-year cycle:
- 1st Generation AirPods Pro: October 2019
- 2nd Generation AirPods Pro: September 2022
This logically leads to a launch of the third generation in September 2025. It fits the pattern. And it makes sense from a marketing perspective: If a new model is available after three years and millions of users are waiting for an upgrade, why shouldn't Apple take advantage of that year?
AirPods Pro 3: Everything points to a launch this year
Despite Kuo's report, it still looks strongly that the AirPods Pro 3 will be released in fall 2025. His statement is too vague to truly rule out a launch. Add to that clear evidence in Apple code, the silence of otherwise well-informed sources, and Apple's typical release pattern. Perhaps a later launch was actually planned at one point—but currently, there's no clear evidence that this plan hasn't changed. There's a lot to suggest you can expect new AirPods Pro in September. And if Apple capitalizes on the current momentum, it will be worth it. Looking for accessories? Our Amazon Storefront is your destination for high-quality products, including HomeKit-compatible ones! (Image: Shutterstock / rvlsoft)
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