Apple's New AirPods Pro 3: Impressive Improvements in Sound Quality and Design, But Battery Life Lags Behind
Introduction
Apple recently released the highly anticipated AirPods Pro 3, and while they boast impressive improvements in sound quality and design, one area where they fall short is battery life. According to 9to5Mac, the new AirPods Pro 3 have less overall battery life than their predecessor, the AirPods Pro 2.
Key Details
The AirPods Pro 3 have a battery life of up to 5 hours on a single charge, compared to the 5.5 hours of the AirPods Pro 2. While this may not seem like a significant difference, it can make a noticeable impact for those who use their AirPods for long periods of time or on a daily basis. Additionally, the charging case for the AirPods Pro 3 only provides an additional 19 hours of battery life, while the case for the AirPods Pro 2 offers 24 hours.
Impact
The shorter battery life of the AirPods Pro 3 may be a disappointment for some users, but it's important to note that the new model does have its improvements. The active noise cancellation feature, for example, may require more battery power, which could be a contributing factor to the decrease in overall battery life. Additionally, the AirPods Pro 3 have a new design that allows for a better fit and
About the Organizations Mentioned
Apple
Apple Inc. is a leading American multinational technology company known for pioneering personal computing, mobile devices, and software ecosystems. Founded in 1976 by Steve Jobs and Steve Wozniak, Apple revolutionized technology with the first commercially successful personal computer and mainstream adoption of the graphical user interface (GUI), setting new standards in product design, user experience, and seamless integration across devices[2]. Headquartered in Cupertino, California, Apple’s product lineup includes the iPhone, iPad, Mac computers, Apple Watch, AirPods, and services such as the App Store, Apple Music, and iCloud. The company has built a vast ecosystem that enables third-party developers to expand product functionalities, strengthening its market dominance. Apple is widely recognized for its innovation in hardware, software, and services, with an emphasis on aesthetics and privacy. In 2025, Apple committed to its largest-ever investment initiative, pledging $600 billion over four years in the United States to boost manufacturing, research and development, and advanced technology sectors like artificial intelligence (AI) and silicon engineering[1][3]. This includes new manufacturing facilities, expanded R&D centers, and a program called the American Manufacturing Program (AMP) to encourage domestic production of critical components. These efforts support over 450,000 U.S. jobs and aim to establish a robust supply chain within the country[3]. Financially, Apple remains a powerhouse with a market capitalization of $3.84 trillion and annual revenue exceeding $400 billion. However, in 2025, it faced challenges including a 19% decline in stock value, intensified regulatory scrutiny from the U.S. Department of Justice over antitrust issues, legal disputes related to the App Store, and competitive pressure in AI technology[1][2]. Despite these hurdles, Apple continues to innovate, recently updating its software platforms with a unified "Liquid Glass" design and expanding its AI-driven personal assistant, Apple Intelligence[1]. Under CEO Tim Cook’s leadership, Apple balances technological advancement
9to5Mac
**9to5Mac** is a prominent technology news website specializing in comprehensive coverage of Apple Inc. and its ecosystem of products. Founded in 2007 by Seth Weintraub, the site originally focused on Apple’s Mac computers in enterprise settings but quickly expanded to cover all Apple news, rumors, and product launches, establishing itself as a leading source for Apple enthusiasts and professionals[1][7]. The website gained early notoriety for exclusive scoops, including the first photos of the third-generation iPod Nano, the original iPod Touch, and early images of the first iPhone. Such exclusives helped 9to5Mac grow its audience significantly in its formative years[1]. A key milestone in the site's history was the involvement of Mark Gurman, a highly influential Apple reporter who contributed from 2009 until 2016, breaking major stories such as early details about Siri, iOS 7, Retina iMacs, and the 12-inch MacBook, further cementing the site’s reputation for reliable Apple intelligence[1][4]. Currently, 9to5Mac operates commercially with a team of around 16 employees based in Cupertino, California, generating approximately $22.1 million in annual revenue as of 2025[3]. Chance Miller serves as the current Editor-in-Chief. The site is part of Seth Weintraub’s larger 9to5 network, which includes related tech blogs like 9to5Google and 9to5Toys, enabling cross-platform coverage of technology and consumer electronics[1][3][6]. Notable aspects of 9to5Mac include its blend of breaking news, in-depth guides, product analyses, and exclusive rumors, making it a go-to source for Apple insiders and consumers alike. The site has also innovated in its business model by implementing an affiliate program that allows freelance writers to earn revenue from advertising on their articles[1]. Its sustained influence and traffic rank (around 9,772 globally)
