‘AirPods Ultra’ launching later this year sounds more likely than ever

Source: 9to5Mac

Apple has new AirPods launching later this year that we’ve been referring to as a high‑end AirPods Pro model, but recent reporting now makes it seem more likely that they’ll be the first AirPods Ultra.

New AirPods with built‑in IR cameras could be the first ‘Ultra’ model

Last fall, AirPods Pro 3 launched with impressive gains in Active Noise Cancellation and audio quality, a new fit, built‑in heart‑rate sensor, a second‑gen Ultra Wideband chip, and more.

Apple has consistently shipped new AirPods Pro every three years. The first model arrived in 2019, its successor in 2022, and AirPods Pro 3 in 2025.

Rumors have long indicated there’s another AirPods Pro model coming this year.

One of its main new features is the addition of infrared (IR) cameras, which will unlock a variety of AI‑centric experiences via visual intelligence. Hand gestures might be supported too. Rumors also suggest a next‑gen H3 chip could debut to power the camera capabilities.

These new AirPods are expected to cost around $299—about $50 more than AirPods Pro 3.

Following recent reports, a new AirPods Ultra branding seems the more likely outcome.

Why ‘AirPods Ultra’ are a good fit for Apple’s expanding Ultra lineup

Yesterday Macworld reported that Apple plans to use Ultra branding for new iPhone and Mac models later this year. The foldable iPhone will be called iPhone Ultra, and the upcoming MacBook Pro redesign will be the first MacBook Ultra.

If Apple names both products “Ultra,” the chances of getting the first AirPods Ultra this year are high too. Mark Gurman even hinted at it last month, and this weekend reiterated that the new AirPods will represent a “major new product category.”

It’s still possible Apple will use a different name such as “AirPods Pro 3 with AI,” but AirPods Ultra would fit better with how the Ultra moniker is being applied to other products.

As I wrote yesterday, iPhone Ultra and MacBook Ultra are likely to earn their “Ultra” branding not solely for being the absolute best, but for offering the most unique, futuristic features. Adding cameras to AirPods is a major innovative move, and with potential hand‑gesture control and the first H3 chip, Apple could easily justify the AirPods Ultra name.

The expanding “Ultra” lineup won’t necessarily signify the overall best product; some users will still prefer other models for specific strengths (e.g., iPhone 18 Pro Max’s battery life and telephoto camera). “Ultra” will instead emphasize the most distinctive, forward‑looking product in Apple’s portfolio—making the AirPods Ultra name a logical fit.

Best AirPods Pro deals and accessories

• AirPods Pro 3 (now only $199, down from $249)
• Cleaning kit for AirPods
• AirFly Pro 2 for connecting AirPods to standard headphone jacks
• Belemay leather case for AirPods Pro
• Magnetic strap neckband for preventing lost AirPods

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