Apple’s upcoming AirPods Pro 3 have just been accidentally confirmed through the first beta of iOS 26, revealing the clearest sign yet that a launch is imminent. While the company has yet to make an official announcement, a direct reference to AirPods Pro 3 was discovered in the code, leaving little doubt that a third-generation model is in development.
iOS 26 code directly confirms the product name
The leak comes from developer Steve Moser, who found a specific mention of “AirPods Pro 3” within the system files of iOS 26. This marks the first time Apple uses the exact product name in its software, going beyond the more generic “AirPods Pro 2 or later” seen in previous updates.
This is the second software-based leak in just a few weeks, adding further credibility to the theory that the new AirPods will launch sooner rather than later. Many now expect Apple to present them in September during the iPhone 17 keynote, right before iOS 26 goes public.
What we (don’t) know about the new features
Although the code reveals the name, it doesn’t confirm any technical details. Still, rumours suggest improvements in battery life, sound quality and possibly a new health-related sensor. It’s also likely that Apple will refine the design slightly while maintaining compatibility with the current MagSafe charging ecosystem.
While analyst Ming-Chi Kuo had hinted at a 2026 release, the presence of “AirPods Pro 3” in iOS 26 makes that prediction less plausible by the day. All signs now point to a 2025 launch, reinforcing the idea that Apple is staying on schedule with its premium earbuds lineup.