‘AirPods Pro 3’ Referenced in iOS 26 Code
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‘AirPods Pro 3’ Referenced in iOS 26 Code
iOS 26 suggests Apple is working on a new version of the AirPods Pro. The reference is buried in a headphone-related UI framework, so Apple appears to be preparing for the upcoming product launch behind the scenes. Rumors suggest that Apple plans to introduce a new model of the earbuds this fall.
There is no AirPods Pro 3 at the current time, but rumors suggest that Apple plans to introduce a new model this fall. The reference is buried in a headphone-related UI framework, so Apple appears to be preparing for the upcoming product launch behind the scenes.
This isn’t actually the first time Apple has hinted at AirPods Pro 3. Last month, Apple changed a reference to the second-generation AirPods Pro to the “AirPods Pro 2 or later,” even though there is no “later” right now.
The AirPods Pro 3 will have a new look for the earbuds and the case, with Apple perhaps slimming down the case like it did for the AirPods 4. We’re also counting on a faster audio chip that brings improved Active Noise Cancellation and audio quality, plus the updated earbuds might offer heart rate monitoring functionality and temperature sensing.
For more on what’s expected for the AirPods Pro 3, we have a dedicated guide that’s updated with new rumors regularly.
iOS 26 Code Contains References to ‘AirPods Pro 3’
Code found in iOS 26 indicates a new version of Apple’s AirPods Pro could be released soon. MacRumors contributor Steve Moser found references to the “AirPod Pro 3” alongside the ‘AirPods’ 2. Apple has not officially announced a new model of the earbuds is on the way or even being worked on.
While Apple has not officially announced that AirPods Pro 3 are on the way or even being worked on, we’ve seen several rumors indicating Apple will release a new model this fall. Moser found the AirPods 3 reference buried in a headphone-related UI framework, indicating Apple is preparing for the upcoming product launch behind the scenes.
This is the second hint that Apple is preparing to release AirPods Pro 3 soon in the last month or so, as in May, Apple changed a reference to the second-generation AirPods Pro to the “AirPods Pro 2 or later,” even though there is no “later” right now.
The AirPods Pro 3 are rumored to boast a new look for both the earbuds and the case, with Apple possibly slimming down the case as it did for the AirPods 4. A faster audio chip that brings improved Active Noise Cancellation and audio quality is also a possibility, as is heart rate monitoring functionality and temperature sensing.
Source: https://www.macrumors.com/2025/06/10/ios-26-code-airpods-pro-3/