AirPods Pro 3 is finally here, and this feels like one of the biggest leaps forward since the original AirPods Pro. From world’s best ANC to more comfortable angled earbuds, a new heart rate monitor on the stem, and even live translation, these aren’t just an incremental update – it is intricately designed to make everyday listening and living easier, sharper, and more connected.
Overall Look & Feel
The first thing I noticed was the angled earbuds. They’re smaller, sit better in the ear, and feel more stable than AirPods Pro 2. With foam-infused ear tips in five sizes – including a new XXS – AirPods Pro 3 fit more people than ever. You’d also be pleased to know that you can now open the AirPods Pro 3 Case and your iPhone will automatically detect and pair with it – there’s no need to do it manually anymore.
The snug fit feels secure, whether I was hustling around the house to do chores. or just lying down for a quick rest.
The design also comes with IP57 sweat and water resistance, which means you don’t have to worry about a sudden downpour or pushing through a sweaty workout. This feels like a set of AirPods built to handle real life.
Audio Performance
AirPods Pro 3 are a massive step up in sound quality compared to AirPods Pro 2. The new multiport acoustic architecture and Adaptive EQ widen the soundstage so you hear every instrument clearly, tighten the bass for more punch, and bring vocal clarity to the forefront.
The ANC is on another level – up to 2x more effective than AirPods Pro 2, and 4x more noise removed compared to the first AirPods Pro. Whether it was the drone of an aircon or the hum of traffic outside, the world just faded away.
When switching to Personalised Transparency Mode, my own voice and people around me sounded so natural, it felt like I wasn’t wearing headphones at all. And with up to 8 hours of playback with ANC on (a 33% boost over the previous generation), the battery life is finally long enough for a full day of use without stress.
Workout-Ready Performance
This is where AirPods Pro 3 really surprised me. On the stem itself, Apple added a custom heart rate monitor. During my workout, I could check my heart rate and track calories in real time without needing a watch. Pair this with iPhone and it becomes a full fitness tracker in your ears.
The new Workout Buddy, powered by Apple Intelligence, takes it further by giving spoken, personalised motivation while exercising. It felt like having a mini coach whispering encouragement through the set.
Live Translation
This feature feels like the future in your pocket. With Live Translation, you can have in-person conversations across languages. Right now, it works in English, French, German, Portuguese, and Spanish, with Italian, Japanese, Korean, and Simplified Chinese rolling out later this year.
When the other person didn’t have AirPods, your iPhone will display a live transcription of both sides of the conversation. But if both parties wore AirPods Pro 3, the translations will play directly into their ears. For travel, work, or even casual chats, it felt seamless and surprisingly natural. It is important to note that Live Translation is meant to translate contextual conversations and may not be able to give you the most accurate translation – but it should work very well in terms of normal conversations with another party speaking a foreign language.
Pricing & Availability
AirPods Pro 3 will start at S$349, and for those who has placed a pre-order, you will receive your AirPods Pro starting from 19 September 2025, Friday. Visit Apple online, or your nearest Apple store to check it out.
Hop over to the First Looks for Apple Watch Series 11 here.
