If you’re considering an AirPods upgrade, here’s the hard truth: Apple’s AirPods Pro 3 will not launch in 2025. Top analysts, including Jeff Pu and Ming-Chi Kuo, have confirmed that the next-generation Pro earbuds are now scheduled for a 2026 release, contradicting earlier rumors of a 2025 launch.
Why the Delay?
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Product Roadmap: Apple just refreshed the AirPods 4 and AirPods Max, making a new Pro model this year highly unlikely.
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iOS 26 Beta References: Mentions of AirPods Pro 3 in code sparked speculation, but there’s no evidence of an imminent launch.
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Focus on Other Hardware: Apple is prioritizing other products for 2025, such as the Apple Watch Series 11 and HomePad tablet.
What Can You Expect from AirPods Pro 3?
The next Pro model is expected to bring major upgrades:
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Heart rate monitoring and health sensors
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Improved active noise cancellation
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Potential onboard cameras for gesture controls and AR features
Should You Wait or Buy AirPods Pro 2 Now?
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Buy AirPods Pro 2 now if you want the best Apple audio experience available today. You’ll get at least two more years of top-tier performance before the Pro 3 arrives.
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Wait for AirPods Pro 3 only if you specifically want the rumored health and AI features. Otherwise, delaying your purchase doesn’t make sense.
Don’t let rumors stall your decision. The AirPods Pro 3 is not coming until 2026, so the smart move is to upgrade to AirPods Pro 2 if you need new earbuds now. For a deep dive into the latest leaks, feature rumors, and buying advice, check out this comprehensive analysis: AirPods Pro 3 Delayed: Should You Wait or Buy Now? The 2026 Apple Strategy Exposed.
Upgrade smart—don’t wait for vaporware.
- https://www.opticflux.com/airpods-pro-3-delayed-should-you-wait-or-buy-now-the-2026-apple-strategy-exposed/74227/
- https://www.macrumors.com/2025/06/16/airpods-pro-3-not-launching-until-next-year/
- https://www.whathifi.com/headphones/wireless-earbuds/the-airpods-pro-3-might-not-launch-until-2026-analyst-says
- https://www.techradar.com/audio/earbuds-airpods/apple-may-not-get-around-to-launching-the-airpods-pro-3-until-2026
- http://www.techtimes.com/articles/310808/20250615/apple-airpods-pro-3-delay-new-report-claims-it-will-not-launch-until-2026-why.htm
- https://www.news9live.com/technology/tech-news/airpods-pro-3-may-delayed-until-2026-claims-analyst-2868951
- https://appleinsider.com/articles/25/06/16/airpods-pro-3-now-rumored-to-launch-in-2026
- https://www.reddit.com/r/airpods/comments/1kq317x/kuo_no_major_airpods_hardware_updates_until/
Joyce Lewis is a talented journalist at 3Zebras, known for her insightful coverage of technology, gaming, and privacy issues. Her work delves into the human aspects of tech, from the politeness of virtual assistants to the security risks of smart toys. Joyce’s articles are engaging and informative, making complex topics accessible to a wide audience.