Apple recently introduced the latest AirPods Pro, showcasing new features such as Live Translation and improved Noise Cancellation. However, the standout feature exclusive to the AirPods Pro 3 is the addition of heart rate sensors.
This feature sets the AirPods Pro 3 apart from its predecessors and other earbuds on the market. While Live Translation was also introduced to the 2024 AirPods, the heart rate monitoring capability is truly innovative and has garnered recognition, including being named one of TIME’s Best Inventions of 2025.
The integration of heart rate sensors in the AirPods Pro 3 offers a game-changing experience for fitness enthusiasts, especially those who prefer not to wear an Apple Watch during workouts. These sensors enable users to track their exercise routines seamlessly and effectively.
Tracking Workouts with AirPods Pro 3
The AirPods Pro 3 focus on monitoring heart rate during active exercise, providing accurate readings through advanced photoplethysmography (PPG) sensors. This technology, combined with the H2 chip, ensures reliable data even during high-intensity workouts like HIIT.
To enable heart rate tracking with AirPods Pro 3, users simply need to ensure the feature is enabled in the iPhone Settings app. Once activated, the AirPods seamlessly pair with the Fitness app, allowing users to monitor their heart rate and workout data in real-time.
For users who also own an Apple Watch, the AirPods Pro 3 can complement the watch’s workout tracking capabilities. By leveraging a “Sensor Fusion” technique, both devices contribute heart rate data, enhancing the overall workout experience.
Pro Tip — The “Midnight Sync” Rule: To maintain accurate Activity Rings data, ensure your Apple Watch syncs with your iPhone by midnight after using AirPods Pro 3 for workouts.
While the AirPods Pro 3 offer convenient workout tracking, they are not a complete substitute for an Apple Watch. Certain activities like swimming and specific workout types require the use of an Apple Watch for accurate monitoring.
Overall, the AirPods Pro 3 provide a unique and valuable addition to Apple’s ecosystem, enhancing the fitness tracking experience for users who prefer earbuds over traditional wearables.
