Apple was widely expected to release the next-generation of its AirPods Pro noise-canceling earbuds this fall, and now it is has. As part of its "awe-dropping" event, the company debuted the AirPods Pro 3. The new buds are upgraded in several ways, including better noise canceling and sound quality, and they have heart-rate sensors like the Beats PowerBeats Pro 2. You can preorder them today for $249 and they ship on Sept. 19.
Here are some of their key upgrades, according to Apple. It's worth noting that the the AirPods Pro 3 are still using Apple's H2 chip, not the rumored even more powerful H3 chip some people thought they might add (it apparently doesn't exist yet). Also, the case uses a new U2 chip for advanced precision Find My.
New heart-rate sensors
2x better noise canceling compared to AirPods Pro 2
Improved sound quality with better bass
New foam ear tips (now available in five sizes)
New live translation feature
Up to 8 hours of battery with noise canceling on (up to 10 hours with transparency and hearing aid modes)
IP57 water-resistant and dust-resistant (AirPods Pro 2 are IPX4 splash proof)
Price: $249, £219
Shipping: Sept. 19
The AirPods Pro 3 have heart-rate sensors like the Beats PowerBeats Pro 2. Screenshot by David Carnoy/CNET
This is a developing story. I'll continue updating it as soon as I get more info and get some hands-on time with the AirPods Pro 3 in Apple's demo room at the event.