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

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.

But 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. And rumors indicate a next-gen H3 chip could debut as well, likely to power the camera capabilities.

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

Like with AirPods 4, where you can buy a model with ANC for $179 or without for $129, we’ve been expecting Apple to brand this new model as a high-end AirPods Pro 3 tier.

However, following reports this week, 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, as several other leakers have already claimed. And the big MacBook Pro redesign will actually be the first MacBook Ultra.

• Read more: iPhone Ultra is coming: Six new features in Apple’s high-end model
• Read more: Apple’s new MacBook Ultra could be exactly what I’ve been wanting

If Apple does indeed name both products ‘Ultra,’ I think the chances of us 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 certainly still possible Apple will use ‘AirPods Pro 3 with AI’ branding, or something like that. But ‘AirPods Ultra’ would fit better with how Ultra is being used for these other products.

As I wrote yesterday, iPhone Ultra and MacBook Ultra are likely to earn their ‘Ultra’ branding not for offering the most innovative, cutting-edge technology.

That sounds a lot like Apple’s plans for the new AirPods. Adding cameras to AirPods is a major innovative move, and if we get hand gestures and the first H3 chip—plus potential other surprises—I can easily see Apple justifying the ‘AirPods Ultra’ name.

Apple’s expanding ‘Ultra’ lineup won’t necessarily signify the overall, absolute best product. Some users will prefer the strengths of other models—like iPhone 18 Pro Max’s battery life and telephoto camera, for example.

‘Ultra’ instead will emphasize the most unique, futuristic product in Apple’s lineup. And in that way, the AirPods Ultra name makes a lot of sense.

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 (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