The new Apple Airpods 4 on display upon release on September 20, 2024 at the Apple Store at The Grove in Los Angeles, California. Apple on September 9, 2024 announced a new iPhone built for generative artificial intelligence as it seeks to boost sales and show it is keeping up in the technology race. (Photo by Frederic J. BROWN / AFP)
AirPods Pro 3 Launch Nears? Apple Code Update Hints at Imminent Release
As Apple’s WWDC 2025 approaches this June, anticipation is building. While there’s a chance of a surprise unveiling during the event, a more likely scenario suggests the AirPods Pro 3 may arrive in September. After months of rumors, the strongest indication of Apple’s next-generation wireless earbuds has now emerged—and it comes directly from Apple itself. A recent software update has sparked fresh speculation, hinting that the AirPods Pro 3 might be gearing up for an autumn 2025 debut.
Until Apple provides official confirmation, both fans and industry analysts are closely monitoring WWDC and upcoming beta software for any hints.
Code Leak Suggests Compatibility with Upcoming Model
A subtle yet significant clue was uncovered by developer Aaron Perris, who shared his discovery on X (formerly known as Twitter). In Apple’s latest software build, a small but important edit was found: a line of code that once specifically referred to a function for “AirPods Pro 2nd Generation” has now been changed to say “AirPods Pro 2 or later.” This simple wording shift strongly suggests that Apple is preparing its ecosystem for a new version—almost certainly the AirPods Pro 3.
Although the code snippet does not include a launch date or specific hardware features, it does indicate backend readiness, which Apple typically initiates a few months ahead of a product release. This lends weight to the growing belief that the AirPods Pro 3 will make their debut alongside other major devices—such as the iPhone 17 Air, iPhone 17 Pro, and Apple Watch Ultra 3—expected in September 2025.
WWDC Launch Still a Possibility, But September More Likely
Despite the possibility that Apple could tease or reveal the AirPods Pro 3 at WWDC 2025, scheduled for June, a fall launch remains more consistent with Apple’s historical product timeline. The first-generation AirPods Pro arrived in late 2019, while the AirPods Pro 2 were launched in autumn 2022. Apple has traditionally aligned major AirPods releases with its annual iPhone keynote, where ecosystem enhancements and new audio features naturally complement new hardware rollouts.
What Features Might the AirPods Pro 3 Include?
Although Apple has yet to disclose technical specifications, ongoing leaks and reports suggest the AirPods Pro 3 could feature the all-new H3 chip. This chip is expected to improve audio processing, extend battery life, and boost Active Noise Cancellation. Other anticipated improvements include enhanced integration with Apple’s Vision Pro, support for personalized spatial audio, and the possible inclusion of health-tracking functionalities—part of Apple’s broader push into wellness and wearable tech.
While fans eagerly await official news, the signs are becoming clearer: Apple’s next-gen earbuds are not just rumors anymore—they are already being built into the company’s software and ecosystem.
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