The discoveries continue to be made in iOS 26, with the latest leaked code mentioning a new pair of top-end wireless earbuds that could launch later in the year, the AirPods Pro 3. A reference to the newer version was spotted in leaked code, leading us to draw various speculations, so let us begin.
Leaked iOS 26 code only provides evidence about the AirPods Pro 3’s existence, but past rumors have talked about its design and improved features
Regular MacRumors contributor Steve Moser found some valuable information surrounding the AirPods Pro 3 in iOS 26 beta 1. The reference was located in a headphone-related UI framework, hinting that Apple is preparing an imminent release. Unfortunately, Moser has written in his post on X that other than finding out a pair of AirPods Pro 3 exist for a future release, he could not dig deep to unearth what features it will ship with.
Thankfully, past reports and rumors have talked about both the design and one feature that should be a part of the AirPods Pro 3. Previously, we mentioned that Apple’s upcoming premium wireless earbuds will sport a design change, and that these will deliver better Active Noise Cancellation than the AirPods Pro 2. This upgrade suggests that the AirPods Pro 3 could ship with a custom H3 chip, bringing more perks to the table, which we shall find out about during the official unveiling.
AirPods Pro 3 must be coming soon if it is in iOS 26 Beta 1. Unfortnately I couldn’t find any other references or hints as to what new features they might have. https://t.co/aoNSJjhgvJ
— Steve Moser (@SteveMoser) June 10, 2025
Assuming that you cannot wait to grab a pair of AirPods Pro 3 when these are slated to launch in Q4 2025, you can always become the proud owner of a discounted pair of AirPods Pro 2, which are currently available for $169.99 on Amazon after a $79 price drop. These ship with better Active Noise Cancellation thanks to the improved H2 chip, have support for Apple’s clinical-grade Hearing Aid, and deliver up to 30 hours of runtime with the wireless charging case.
