I measured the AirPods Pro 3's heart rate tracking against an Apple Watch Ultra 3 – here's how they compare

Apple's forthcoming AirPods Pro 3 (2025) will integrate heart rate sensing, positioning the premium earbuds as a complementary fitness wearable within the company's ecosystem. While testing indicates the new feature provides accurate basic heart rate monitoring comparable to the Apple Watch Ultra 3, it lacks advanced metrics like heart rate zones and precise calorie tracking, suggesting it serves as an enhancement to the audio product rather than a standalone, dedicated fitness device. This strategic move aims to broaden the AirPods' appeal and reinforce Apple's health and wearables platform, potentially increasing user engagement and ecosystem stickiness, particularly when paired with an Apple Watch for enhanced data accuracy.

Analysis

Apple (AAPL) is set to launch the AirPods Pro 3 in 2025, integrating significant fitness-oriented enhancements, most notably in-ear heart rate sensing, a first for the mainstream AirPods lineup. This strategic move positions the premium earbuds as a complementary fitness wearable within Apple's ecosystem, alongside improved fit and enhanced Active Noise Cancellation, broadening their appeal to active users.

Testing indicates the AirPods Pro 3's heart rate monitoring is highly accurate for basic tracking, showing results "almost identical" to the Apple Watch Ultra 3. However, the device exhibits limitations, lacking heart rate zone information and demonstrating a "big discrepancy" in calorie tracking, suggesting it is not intended as a primary, standalone fitness tracker for advanced users.

Crucially, the AirPods Pro 3 offer enhanced data accuracy when paired with an Apple Watch, leveraging the most reliable readings from either device. This integration reinforces Apple's ecosystem strategy, potentially increasing user engagement and device stickiness by offering a more comprehensive health tracking experience, even if the fitness features are primarily an "embellishment" to the core audio product.

Key Decisions for Investors

• Investors should monitor the impact of these new features on Apple's wearables segment revenue growth and overall ecosystem engagement.
• Assess how the enhanced integration between AirPods Pro 3 and Apple Watch strengthens customer loyalty and drives incremental sales across Apple's product portfolio.
• Consider the competitive implications of Apple's strategy to differentiate its dedicated fitness devices from its audio products while still offering compelling health features.