iOS 18 beta code suggests AirPods with heart rate sensor

With the release of iOS 18 RC, Apple is once again making waves. In addition to the usual improvements and features that the operating system brings, the latest beta code reveals an exciting development: Wireless earphones with integrated heart rate sensors could soon become part of the Apple ecosystem. This could mean that future versions of the AirPods and Beats earphones will not only improve your music experience but also keep an eye on your health.

Apple has been focusing more on health features in recent years. The Apple Watch, with its ECG and heart rate sensors, is the best example of this. But now the popular wireless earphones could also take a similar direction. The hint discovered in the beta code of iOS 18 (via AppleInsider) to this feature could be the next step in Apple's strategy to further revolutionize health technology. Wireless earbuds that can measure heart rate? That sounds like an innovative addition for fitness enthusiasts and technology lovers.

What the iOS 18 beta code reveals

An interesting string of characters has been discovered in the latest beta version of iOS 18, hinting at upcoming wireless earbuds from Apple. This code, which controls the setup process for the AirPods and Beats earbuds, contains a specific instruction: "Wear both earbuds while exercising to measure your heart rate and send it to Apple Health." This strongly suggests that Apple plans to equip future earbuds with a heart rate sensor.

Rumors and patents confirm the evidence

This discovery confirms previous rumors and patent applications from Apple that suggested the integration of health features in future AirPods. Back in 2017, Apple filed a patent describing the use of a photoplethysmograph (PPG) sensor in earbuds. This sensor measures heart rate by analyzing blood flow by projecting light onto the surface of the skin and measuring the reflections. Other patents from Apple even talk about the integration of an electrocardiogram sensor (ECG), impedance cardiography and other innovative health sensors.

What does this mean for you?

If the upcoming AirPods or Beats earphones are actually equipped with a heart rate sensor, this could revolutionize your fitness and health management. You could monitor your heart rate in real time during your workout and have it saved directly in Apple Health. This would not only give you better control over your training but also allow you to experience seamless interaction between your iPhone, your Apple Watch and your wireless earphones.

Release date and what to expect

According to reports, the new AirPods Pro 3 and PowerBeats Pro 2, which feature a heart rate sensor, will be released in 2025. The PowerBeats Pro 2 have already been officially announced, but it remains unclear whether they will actually include the new sensor. During the recent Glowtime event, Apple already presented several new products, including the AirPods 4 with active noise cancellation and USB-C charging. However, the AirPods Pro 3 could be one of the most exciting new releases in 2025.

integration into the Apple ecosystem

One of Apple's greatest strengths is the seamless integration of its devices. If the upcoming AirPods are equipped with a heart rate sensor, this would be another example of how Apple harmoniously links its various products. You could have your heart rate data from the earbuds transferred directly to Apple Health and to your Apple Watch, giving you a comprehensive picture of your health.

AirPods and Beats with heart rate sensor: A look into the future

With the potential integration of heart rate sensors into the next generations of AirPods and Beats earbuds, Apple could be taking another big step towards health and fitness tracking. iOS 18 has already given us a taste of what we could expect. This development shows how technology and health are becoming more and more intertwined. So if you're a fitness enthusiast or just want to keep a better eye on your health, the upcoming Apple earbuds could be just the thing for you. The future of wireless earbuds definitely looks exciting - and Apple is once again at the forefront. (Photo by Unsplash / Omid Armin)