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If you're hoping for new AirPods, you'll probably have to wait a bit longer. There's currently no sign of any rapid development in sight for the AirPods Pro, in particular. Well-known Apple analyst Ming-Chi Kuo predicts there won't be a new generation until 2026. This specifically applies to the AirPods Pro 3. While other sources predict a release in 2025, Kuo says there are currently no indications of major hardware updates from Apple in this area.
The AirPods Pro 2 have been on the market since 2022. Three years without a new hardware generation seems unusual by Apple standards, especially since the Pro models are among the best-selling and most profitable products in the AirPods lineup. Nevertheless, according to Kuo, a true successor model – the AirPods Pro 3 – won't be available until 2026 at the earliest. Here's what's known so far about the new model, what technical innovations are expected, and why the timeline is controversial.
According to Kuo, Apple is not planning any new AirPods before 2026
Ming-Chi Kuo, one of the most well-known and often reliable analysts in the Apple world, recently stated on X (formerly Twitter) that Apple isn't planning to release new AirPods Pro in 2025. The next generation, the AirPods Pro 3, isn't expected to be released until 2026. What's notable about this is that, according to Kuo, the new model will be equipped with infrared cameras. What exactly these cameras are intended for is still unclear. A connection to the Vision Pro or other augmented reality applications is conceivable.
Other reports contradict
There is conflicting information. Some media outlets are reporting that the AirPods Pro 3 will launch as early as 2025. Possible new features include improved active noise cancellation and health-related features like a heart rate monitor. However, these details have not been confirmed. Kuo maintains that no major hardware updates are planned before 2026. Since Apple typically releases its AirPods every two to three years, his assessment still seems unusual to many.
Heart rate sensor possible
A frequently discussed feature for the AirPods Pro 3 is an integrated heart rate sensor. This feature was already introduced in the new Powerbeats Pro 4, making it quite likely that it will be included in the AirPods Pro 3. This would further expand Apple's AirPods' health tools. Whether the sensor will actually be included in the next model remains to be seen.
Competition from within the company
Another argument against a longer product hiatus is Apple's own strategy. In fall 2024, the company introduced the AirPods 4. They are significantly cheaper than the Pro models (starting at €149), but offer features like active noise cancellation that were previously reserved for the more expensive models. This deprives the AirPods Pro of some of their unique selling point.
Software updates instead of hardware
Since the release of the AirPods Pro 2, Apple has refrained from adding new hardware, but has delivered regular software updates. Of particular note is the hearing aid function, which allows the AirPods Pro 2 to be used as a hearing aid for people with mild to moderate hearing loss. Thus, the current models demonstrate further development even without new hardware – but still build on existing technology.
AirPods Max: Even longer break
Things are even worse for users of AirPods Max, Apple's over-ear headphones. According to current estimates, a new version isn't expected before 2027. Here, too, no hardware upgrade is in sight.
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AirPods Pro 3: Conflicting information about the market launch
Whether the AirPods Pro 3 will be released in 2025 or not until 2026 is currently unclear. While analyst Ming-Chi Kuo predicts a later release, other reports point to an earlier market launch in fall 2025 with new features like a heart rate monitor and improved noise cancellation. These reports therefore contradict each other. Those waiting for the new model should keep an eye on the rumor mill and, above all, clues from Apple's supply chain. Until then, it remains to be seen when exactly Apple will take the next step with the AirPods Pro. (Image: Shutterstock / Mehaniq)
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