Apple’s AirPods 3: Now Spatial, Now Sound!
What’s New in the AirPods 3 Lineup?
Spatial Audio takes center stage, finally landing on the third‑generation AirPods. Whether you’re binge‑watching a show or jamming to your favorite playlist, the earbuds now deliver a 3‑D audio experience that feels right in the middle of the action. That means the same immersive sound that the AirPods Pro and AirPods Max have been rocking is now available on the newer, more affordable model.
And because Apple knows you’re price‑sensitive, the second‑generation AirPods now come in at a snack‑budget $199, while the fresh third‑generation AirPods are listed at $269.
Quick Comparison
- Spatial Audio: AirPods Pro, Max, and now the 3rd Gen
- Price: AirPods 3 – $269 • AirPods 2 – $199
- Design: Slimer, lighter, and oh‑so‑stylish
- Battery Life: Roughly 5 hours of listening (with a quick charge boost to get you back to playtime fast)
Bottom line: Apple has leveled the playing field for spatial audio across its main earbud line, and you get to pick your price point. If you crave the cinematic feel in your pocket, the third‑generation AirPods are here to deliver. And if you’re okay with a slightly “older” feel but love the savings, the second‑generation AirPods still bring the same fun with a better price tag.
Apple’s Third‑Gen AirPods: Tweaked Design, New Features, and a Big Battery Boost
Apple’s latest AirPods—styled just like the AirPods Pro—ditch the classic silicone ear tips and the much‑praised active noise cancellation. If that sounded like a downgrade, think again.
Instead, the new buds come with adaptive EQ that automatically tweaks the sound profile to match whatever you’re listening to. Whether you’re cranking up a podcast or blasting an EDM track, your audio will feel fresh and balanced.
- 6‑hour battery life per charge
- 5‑minute quick‑charge gives 1 hour of playtime
- Thanks to the MagSafe charger, your iPhone’s wireless charger doubles as a pod battery pack
- All that adds up to about 30 hours of listening—enough to get you through a weekend of binge‑watching or a long road trip without a break
Shhh… if you’re curious about the timeline: the new AirPods will hit shelves on October 26, 2021 and come bundled with a six‑month Apple Music subscription.
Bottom line: Apple swapped out the tips and noise cancelation but gave the pods a fresh sonic edge and a super‑charged battery. Now that’s a win for audiophiles and casual listeners alike.
