Apple Plans Higher-End AirPods Pro 3 with Cameras for Enhanced AI Features

Apple is preparing to release a second, more advanced model of the AirPods Pro 3, equipped with infrared (IR) cameras to bolster its artificial intelligence (AI) capabilities. This follows the recent launch of the standard AirPods Pro 3, which focused on improvements to audio quality and Active Noise Cancellation.

Expanding AI with Visual Intelligence

According to Bloomberg’s Mark Gurman, the addition of external cameras will allow the AirPods Pro 3 to “understand the outside world and provide information” to the user. This suggests a core focus on Visual Intelligence as a key feature of the new earbuds.

Potential Features and Design Changes

The cameras could transform the AirPods Pro 3 into an environmental sensor, capable of interpreting the user’s surroundings. Leaker Instant Digital suggests the new model may also move away from pressure-sensitive buttons on the ear stems, potentially adopting hand gesture support. Yet, Apple may choose to support both input methods, given the increasing reliance on stem controls.

Two Models of AirPods Pro 3

Apple appears to be mirroring its strategy with the AirPods 4, offering two versions of the AirPods Pro 3: the current model and a higher-priced version with the integrated cameras. The rest of the technical specifications are expected to remain largely consistent between the two models.

Previous Reports on AirPods Pro 3 Features

Earlier reports from Mark Gurman in September 2025 indicated that the AirPods Pro 3 would include heart rate monitoring, building on the technology already implemented in the Powerbeats Pro 2. However, a Reddit post referencing Gurman’s reporting suggested that the AirPods Pro 3 would not receive “major” improvements to audio or Active Noise Cancellation. MacRumors also reported on the expectation of a 2025 launch with heart rate monitoring.

The current AirPods Pro 2 launched in September 2022 and received a USB-C charging case update in September 2023.