Apple is planning significant updates to its AirPods lineup over the next two years, with the most notable being the AirPods Pro 3 expected to launch in fall 2026. The standard AirPods Pro 3 will reportedly be joined by a higher-end model featuring infrared cameras for AI capabilities, priced around $299.

AirPods Max 2 won't arrive until 2027, disappointing fans who hoped for a true hardware refresh last fall. Instead, Apple only offered a USB-C upgrade and new colors for the existing model. The next-generation over-ear headphones are rumored to be lighter with a more modern H-class processor, possibly the H3 chip.

AirPods 5 also target a 2027 release, following Apple's typical three-year update cycle. While details remain scarce, Bloomberg has reported Apple is actively developing the next entry-level model with an H3 chip and potentially new health features. However, the heart rate sensor expected in AirPods Pro 3 won't make its way to the standard AirPods just yet, at least not in the initial release.