The Apple AirPods (3rd Generation) bring a major design and audio upgrade to Apple’s standard AirPods lineup, blending the comfort of classic AirPods with features inspired by the AirPods Pro. Released in 2021, they introduce spatial audio, better sound quality, and longer battery life in a more modern, sweat-resistant design—while keeping the simple, open-ear fit many users prefer.
Key features:
Release Date: October 2021
Design: Shorter stem, contoured open-ear design inspired by AirPods Pro
Chipset: H1 wireless chip for fast pairing and low-latency performance
Sound: Rich, detailed audio with Adaptive EQ
Spatial Audio: Personalized spatial audio with dynamic head tracking
Microphones: Dual beamforming microphones with improved voice clarity
Battery Life: Up to 6 hours listening time; over 30 hours with charging case
Charging: Lightning or MagSafe charging case (varies by model)
Connectivity: Bluetooth with seamless automatic Apple device switching
Controls: Force-sensor controls for music, calls, and media
Other Features: Sweat and water resistant (IPX4), automatic in-ear detection, hands-free “Hey Siri”
Who is this for?
The AirPods (3rd Gen) are ideal for users who want premium sound and modern features without moving to in-ear silicone tips. They are perfect for iPhone, iPad, and Mac users who enjoy spatial audio, clear calls, and a lightweight, comfortable fit for all-day use. If you want better sound and battery life than the 2nd Gen AirPods, but don’t need active noise cancellation like the Pro models, the 3rd Generation AirPods strike an excellent balance between performance and comfort.
