Instead of introducing AirPods Pro 4, Apple is rumored to unveil a premium version of AirPods Pro 3 this year, even though the third generation was released less than six months ago.

This approach mirrors the strategy applied to the standard AirPods 4 lineup, which offers two options: with and without active noise cancellation.

According to analyst Ming-Chi Kuo and several leak sources, the new AirPods Pro model will be equipped with ultra-compact infrared cameras capable of “seeing” the surrounding environment.

Kuo noted that the camera system could support spatial gesture controls and upgrade the audio experience when pairing AirPods Pro with Vision Pro.

In addition, the leaker Kosutami revealed that the infrared cameras may enable AirPods Pro to connect more deeply with Apple Intelligence. Specifically, Visual Intelligence is expected to become a core feature on the camera-integrated AirPods Pro, as well as on other cross-wearable AI devices from the company.

If these reports are accurate, the AirPods Pro 3 lineup could include two versions: a standard AirPods Pro 3 priced at US$249 and a camera-equipped AirPods Pro 3 costing between US$299 and US$349 or higher.

Although Apple has never simultaneously distributed multiple AirPods Pro SKUs, such a strategy appears feasible given the precedent set by the AirPods 4 range.

So far, the AirPods Pro series has included: AirPods Pro (2019), AirPods Pro with MagSafe charging case (2021), AirPods Pro 2 (2022), AirPods Pro 2 with USB-C charging case (2023), and AirPods Pro 3 (2025).

It remains unclear when Apple will officially announce the new AirPods Pro model, but based on previous launch cycles, September or October seems the most plausible timeframe.

Du Lam