GoKawiilApple has new AirPods launching later this year that we’ve been referring to as a high-end AirPods Pro model, but recent reporting now makes it seem more likely that they’ll be the first ‘AirPods Ultra.’
New AirPods with built-in IR cameras could be the first ‘Ultra’ model
Last fall, AirPods Pro 3 launched with impressive gains in Active Noise Cancellation and audio quality, a new fit, built-in heart rate sensor, a second-gen Ultra Wideband chip, and more.
Apple has consistently shipped new AirPods Pro every three years. The first model arrived in 2019, its successor in 2022, and AirPods Pro 3 in 2025.
But rumors have long indicated there’s another AirPods Pro model coming this year.
One of its main new features is the addition of infrared (IR) cameras, which will unlock a variety of AI-centric experiences via visual intelligence. Hand gestures might be supported too. And rumors indicate a next-gen H3 chip could debut as well, likely to power the camera capabilities.
These new AirPods are expected to cost around $299—that’s $50 more than AirPods Pro 3.
Like with AirPods 4, where you can buy a model with ANC for $179 or without for $129, we’ve been expecting Apple to brand this new model as a high-end AirPods Pro 3 tier.
However, following reports this week, a new ‘AirPods Ultra’ branding seems the more likely outcome.
Why ‘AirPods Ultra’ are a good fit for Apple’s expanding Ultra lineup
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