Apple is preparing an aggressive Apple Card sign-up bonus that essentially gives new customers a free pair of AirPods Pro 3. According to Bloomberg's Mark Gurman, the promotion launching next week in Apple retail stores will provide $249 cash back when you open a new Apple Card and purchase the wireless earbuds.

The deal requires visiting an Apple Store to qualify, though it's unclear if online availability will be offered. This represents a significant departure from typical Apple Card bonuses, which are usually smaller and often require existing customer referrals. With no annual fee attached to the card, the promotion makes the AirPods Pro 3 essentially free for new applicants.

Apple currently runs another lucrative offer through May 18th, providing $100 in bonus Daily Cash for adding an account co-owner. The timing coincides with Apple's ongoing transition of Apple Card services from Goldman Sachs to Chase, with the full migration expected to span two years.

For consumers eyeing AirPods Pro 3, this promotion effectively eliminates the $249 price tag while providing a premium credit card with solid cashback rewards through Daily Cash deposits.