“I want the AirPods Pro, but I’d like to use the latest earbuds if possible.”
Currently, the latest earbuds released by Apple are the AirPods Pro 2, but when will their successor, the AirPods Pro 3, be released?
In this article, we discuss whether it’s worth buying the AirPods Pro 2 now or if you should wait for the features that the upcoming AirPods Pro 3 might offer.
Conclusion: There is no need to wait for the new AirPods Pro 3rd Generation
To begin with the conclusion, there is no need to wait for the new AirPods Pro 3rd Generation.
The reason is that the release of the AirPods Pro 3rd Generation is expected to be quite far off.
When will the AirPods Pro 3rd Generation be released?
Based on the release dates of previous AirPods models, I have made a prediction about the release timing of the AirPods Pro 3rd Generation.
| AirPods Series | AirPods Pro Series |
|---|---|
| 1st Generation: December 2016 | 1st Generation: October 2019 |
| 2nd Generation: March 2019 | 2nd Generation: September 2022 |
| 3rd Generation: October 2022 | 2nd Generation: September 2023 |
The cycle for AirPods typically sees a new product release approximately every 2 years and 2 months.
Based on past trends, it is anticipated that the AirPods Pro 3 will be introduced in the fall of 2025 or later.
Even at the time of writing (February 2024), it would be nearly another 2 years before its release, so if you’re in need of earbuds, considering the AirPods Pro 2 might be a viable option.
The AirPods Pro 2 was just updated in September 2023
The AirPods Pro 2 received improvements to its charging case, coinciding with the release of the iPhone 15, with added functionalities.
Specifically, changes include the transition of the charging case port to USB Type-C and enhancements to its dust and water resistance capabilities.
- Enhanced water and dust resistance: from IPX4 to IPX54
- Change to boat specification: from Lightning to USB-C
- Lossless support on Vision Pro
If the release of the AirPods Pro 3 is imminent, it seems unlikely that improvements would be made to the AirPods Pro 2.
It seems that the release of the AirPods Pro 3 is still a little ways off
What are the new features and performance of the new AirPods Pro 3? Leaked information available
In the overseas newsletter “POWER ON,” journalist Mark Gurman also mentions the features of the new AirPods Pro 3.
Summarizing the content of this video, it goes as follows:
- Addition of color variations
- Integration of a monitor into the charging case
- Improvement of noise cancellation functionality
- Enhanced hearing aid capabilities
- Inclusion of a skin temperature sensor
- Health monitoring features
- Improved sound quality
- Support for wireless charging only
The new AirPods Pro 3 is expected to feature health monitoring capabilities.
In particular, it’s planned to incorporate advanced hearing aid functionalities, with development progressing with patent acquisition in mind.
As a result, it’s believed that the new AirPods Pro 3 will evolve into a device that aligns more closely with our daily lives.
Rather than focusing solely on sound quality, there’s an emphasis on features that support daily life.
Addition of color variations
Currently, AirPods Pro is only available in white, but it is expected that the new AirPods Pro will add color options such as Space Gray and Space Black.
With more color options, not only can users choose their preferred color, but it also enables differentiation from others.
Integration of a monitor into the charging case
Rumors suggest that the new AirPods Pro 3 will feature a display monitor on the charging case.
Having a monitor on the charging case would allow for touch control of volume adjustment and track skipping, enhancing convenience.
Improvement of noise cancellation functionality
The new AirPods Pro 3 is expected to further improve noise cancellation functionality.
While the current model already features powerful noise cancellation, the new model is predicted to be able to remove noise from a wider range of frequencies and accommodate individual ear shapes more effectively.
If noise is reduced, sound quality can also be expected to improve
【Comparison】What are the differences between AirPods Pro 2 and AirPods 3?
For those considering the “AirPods Pro 2,” many are also looking into the “AirPods 3,” so let’s explain the differences between them.
Here’s a comparison table summarizing the specs of the “AirPods Pro 2” and the “AirPods 3.”
| Item | AirPods (3rd Generation) | AirPods Pro 2 |
|---|---|---|
| Release Date | October 26, 2021 | September 28, 2022 |
| Reference Price | ¥27,800 | ¥39,800 |
| Earphone Type | In-ear | Canal |
| Noise Cancellation | Not included | Included |
| Transparency Mode | Not included | Included |
| Chip | H1 | H2 |
| Charging Case | No speaker | Speaker included |
| Weight | Single earbud: 4.28g With charging case: 46.47g | Single earbud: 5.30g With charging case: 61.40g |
| Bluetooth | 5.0 | 5.3 |
Comparison Table: AirPods (3rd Generation) vs. AirPods Pro 2
The major differences between the two lie in the “earphone design,” “noise cancellation feature,” and “sound quality.”
- Earphone design: Difference between in-ear and canal types.
- Noise cancellation: Presence or absence of the feature to block surrounding ambient noise.
- Sound quality: Canal type enables clear hearing of bass sounds.
For more differences and detailed selection tips, we have summarized them in this article, so please check it out if you’re interested.
Who are they recommended for?
Based on the specifications table and feedback from actual use, here’s a summary of who each headphone might be recommended for:
- Those who want to enjoy music while still being aware of their surroundings.
- Those who prefer the open feeling of in-ear headphones.
- Those who are not comfortable with canal-type earphones.
- Those who want to keep the price down even a little.
- Those who want earbuds with noise cancellation features
- Those looking for earbuds with ambient sound pass-through functionality
- Those seeking lightweight earbuds with a comfortable fit
- Those who have previously lost earbuds
Here’s the translation:
If you’re interested, there’s a detailed review article about the AirPods (3rd generation), so please check it out.
When to Replace Wireless Earbuds
For those using wireless earbuds, some might be unsure when it’s time to replace them.
Generally, the lifespan of wireless earbuds is said to be around 2 to 3 years.
It’s been suggested that once the charging cycle exceeds approximately 500 times, battery degradation becomes noticeable, and depending on the frequency of use, replacement may be necessary in less than 2 years.
For frequent earbud users, having AppleCare can be advantageous.
The author, who works at an electronics retail store in Japan, shares their passion for audio equipment.
Please forgive any awkward parts in the English translation.