Apple iOS 26 Hints at AirPods Pro 3 Launch: Hidden Easter Egg Revealed

Apple has quietly hinted at the upcoming launch of AirPods Pro 3 through the first developer beta of iOS 26, unveiled during WWDC 2025. A new reference to “AirPods Pro 3” was spotted in the iOS system code, strongly indicating that the next-generation earbuds are in the pipeline.

AirPods Pro 3 Reference Found in iOS 26 Beta

The discovery was reported by MacRumors, which found the product listed within a headphone-related system framework. This aligns with earlier signs where Apple modified internal product descriptions from "AirPods Pro 2nd generation" to "AirPods Pro 2 or later," hinting at an upcoming successor.

While Apple has not confirmed the device, reports suggest the AirPods Pro 3 may launch in Fall 2025.

Expected Features of AirPods Pro 3

• Sleeker design
• Upgraded audio chip for faster performance
• New charging case with improved battery stats and possibly USB-C
• Advanced health sensors, including heart rate and temperature tracking
• AI-based features like contextual voice assistance

Apple is also exploring acoustic-based heart rate monitoring, using in-ear microphones for non-invasive health tracking. This could mark a significant step toward health integration in wearable audio devices.

What’s New in iOS 26?

iOS 26 introduces a redesigned UI called “Liquid Glass”, with semi-transparent layers, smooth animations, and customizable widgets. Key app updates include:

• Phone & Messages: Call Screening, unified call logs, polls, and Apple Cash integration
• Safari, Camera, Photos: Cleaner layouts and faster performance
• Apple Intelligence features: Custom emoji, live audio translation, smart summaries via ChatGPT
• New Games app: Centralized hub for tracking progress and discovering new titles
• AirPods Upgrades: Studio-quality recording, improved voice isolation
• Accessibility: Expanded Braille support, Live Listen updates, Personal Voice enhancements

Conclusion

The iOS 26 beta has all but confirmed that AirPods Pro 3 are on their way, likely arriving by late 2025. With rumored health tracking capabilities and AI enhancements, Apple’s next-gen earbuds may be its most feature-rich yet.