Photograph: Apple
iOS 26 developer beta hints at Apple launching the AirPods Professional 3 sooner somewhat than later. The primary beta of the OS comprises references to the upcoming wi-fi earbuds.
Conflicting reviews encompass the AirPods Professional 3 launch. Some level to a fall 2025 launch, whereas others counsel the earbuds may not arrive till 2026.
iOS 26 unintentionally teases AirPods Professional 3
Apple launched the AirPods Professional (2nd gen) in September 2022. Whereas the earbuds have been up to date so as to add USB-C assist since then, their internals stay unchanged. On the software program entrance, Apple has constantly improved its flagship AirPods, including options like head gestures, voice isolation, and even listening to aids.
However the AirPods Professional 2 can do with a {hardware} refresh. In Might, TF Worldwide Securities analyst Ming-Chi Kuo stated that Apple may not make vital upgrades to AirPods Professional till 2026. Nonetheless, references to the earbuds noticed by MacRumors within the first iOS 26 developer beta counsel in any other case.
Whereas the references don’t particularly reveal something concerning the AirPods Professional 3’s doable options, they trace at its existence. Apple could unveil its new flagship earbuds in September alongside the iPhone 17 lineup. There’s no cause for the earbuds references to look in iOS 26 beta 1 so early in any other case.
AirPods Professional 3 should be coming quickly whether it is in iOS 26 Beta 1. Unfortnately I couldn’t discover another references or hints as to what new options they could have. https://t.co/aoNSJjhgvJ
— Steve Moser (@SteveMoser) June 10, 2025
Subsequent-gen AirPods would possibly sport IR cameras
Rumors level to Apple engaged on AirPods with IR cameras. Nonetheless, it’s unclear whether or not the AirPods Professional 3 will function them or if Apple will reserve them for a future mannequin. The IR cameras can allow assist for in-air hand gestures and presumably different options.
The earbuds may also sport a more recent technology chip for higher sound high quality, ANC and battery life. Leaks additionally counsel that Apple is engaged on a lighter AirPods Max, however it can solely debut in 2027.