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With the AirPods Pro 3, Apple is launching a new model of its popular in-ear headphones on September 19. In addition to improvements in sound and comfort, one feature in particular stands out: improved precision tracking for the charging case. However, there is a surprising limitation: The full performance of this feature is only available with the iPhone 17 and iPhone Air.
The AirPods Pro 3 are considered a significant upgrade over their predecessors. Apple has not only optimized noise cancellation and battery life, but also upgraded the charging case. Those who frequently misplace their AirPods will be pleased with the new search function, which uses ultra-wideband technology. However, although the U2 chip has been in use since the iPhone 15, Apple is limiting the improved precision search exclusively to the latest models.
Improved precision search in AirPods Pro 3
The charging case for the AirPods Pro 3 features the U2 chip, the latest generation of Apple's ultra-wideband technology, for the first time. This chip is said to increase the range for precision finding by 1.5 times. The case also features a speaker built into it, making it easier to find your AirPods—even if they're buried deep in sofa cushions. It's powered by Apple's "Find My" network, which is significantly more precise thanks to the new hardware. Compared to the AirPods Pro 2 with the U1 chip, the improvement is clearly visible.
Why only with iPhone 17 and iPhone Air?
It would seem logical that the improved precision search also works with older iPhones that also have a U2 chip, such as the iPhone 15. However, Apple itself clarifies that the increased accuracy is only available with the iPhone 17, iPhone 17 Pro, iPhone 17 Pro Max, and iPhone Air. Confirmation of this can be found in a footnote on the official product page, which clearly states that the improved precision search is only compatible with these new models. Other iPhones are excluded.
Use with older iPhones
The AirPods Pro 3 can, of course, also be used with iPhone 15, iPhone 16, and older devices. The location feature also works as usual. However, the 1.5 times more precise search feature is reserved for the latest iPhones. Whether users of older models will still benefit from these minor improvements remains unclear. Apple itself has not yet released any details.
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Apple's strategy
Apple isn't alone in tying features to new devices. In the past, certain features were reserved exclusively for current models to make upgrading to the latest hardware more attractive. This approach is evident again with the AirPods Pro 3: Anyone who wants full performance needs an iPhone 17 or iPhone Air.
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AirPods Pro 3: Improved precision search remains an iPhone 17 advantage
The AirPods Pro 3 are a significant upgrade, with improved noise cancellation, an optimized charging case, and practical precision tracking. While the basic features work with all current iPhones, the improved tracking remains exclusive to the latest models. Apple is clearly focusing on the close connection between the AirPods Pro 3 and the iPhone 17. Anyone who wants to fully benefit from the new tracking feature can't miss one of these devices. The best products for you: Our Amazon Storefront offers a wide selection of accessories, including those for HomeKit. (Image: Apple)
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