Apple was referring to its new AirPods, which it plans to launch at the end of this year, as a high-quality AirPods Pro model, but recent reports suggest that they are more likely to be the first ‘AirPods Ultra’.

New AirPods with integrated IR cameras could be the first ‘Ultra’ model

Last fall, AirPods Pro 3 was released with impressive improvements in Active Noise Cancellation and sound quality, new compatibility, an integrated heart rate sensor, a second-generation Ultra Wideband chip, and more.

Apple continues to release new AirPods Pro every three years. The first model came in 2019, the successor in 2022, and AirPods Pro 3 is expected in 2025.

However, there have long been rumors that another AirPods Pro model would be coming this year.

One of the new features is the addition of infrared (IR) cameras that will unveil various AI-centered experiences through visual intelligence. It is also mentioned that hand gestures may be supported. Additionally, rumors suggest that a new generation H3 chip, which will likely enhance camera capabilities, may also be introduced.

These new AirPods are expected to cost around $299, which is $50 more than AirPods Pro 3.

Considering that, like with AirPods 4, you could buy an ANC model for $179 or a non-ANC model for $129, it is expected that Apple will market this new model as a high-quality AirPods Pro 3 level.

However, following reports that emerged this week, it seems that a new ‘AirPods Ultra’ branding is a more likely outcome.

Why is ‘AirPods Ultra’ a good choice for Apple’s expanding Ultra series?

Yesterday, Macworld reported that Apple plans to use the ‘Ultra’ branding for new iPhone and Mac models at the end of this year.

The foldable iPhone will be referred to as iPhone Ultra by someone who has leaked many details before. And the major redesign of the MacBook Pro will actually be the first MacBook Ultra.

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If Apple really names both products ‘Ultra’, I think we have a good chance of getting the first ‘AirPods Ultra’ this year. Mark Gurman mentioned this last month and reiterated this weekend that the new AirPods will represent “a major new product category”.

Of course, it’s also possible that Apple uses the ‘AirPods Pro 3 with AI’ branding or something similar. However, ‘AirPods Ultra’ will align better with the ‘Ultra’ used for other products.

As I wrote yesterday, iPhone Ultra and MacBook Ultra seem to be winning the ‘Ultra’ branding because they do not offer the most innovative, cutting-edge technology.

This closely resembles Apple’s plans for the new AirPods. Adding a camera to AirPods is a significant innovative step, and if other potential surprises like hand gestures and the first H3 chip come into play, I can easily see Apple justifying the name ‘AirPods Ultra’.

Apple’s expanding ‘Ultra’ series will not necessarily represent the best product. Some users may prefer the strengths of other models, such as the battery life and telephoto camera of the iPhone 18 Pro Max.

Instead, ‘Ultra’ will highlight the most unique, futuristic product in Apple’s lineup. From this perspective, the name AirPods Ultra seems quite logical.

Do you think Apple will use ‘AirPods Ultra’ for its new model? Why or why not? Let us know in the comments.

Best AirPods Pro deals and accessories

  • AirPods Pro 3 (currently only $199, down from $249)
  • Cleaning kit for AirPods
  • AirFly Pro 2, to connect AirPods to standard headphone jacks
  • Belemay leather case for AirPods Pro
  • Magnetic strap headphones to prevent losing AirPods