Fans have been waiting for them for months, they are now official. Apple presented its AirPods 3 during its keynote dedicated to MacBook Pro.
The rumors were right, the new wireless headphones from Apple are positioned between the AirPods 2 and the AirPods Pro. Thus, the American offers an extensive and relevant range of audio products. But then, should we fall for the AirPods 3?
Yes, for their new design
Widely criticized with the release of the first AirPods, the design of Apple’s wireless headphones ended up being copied by the competition. The new AirPods 3 take a format revealing a rod to the ear.
In reality, AirPods 3 are kind of mix between AirPods 2 and AirPods Pro. All plastic (solid) dressed, they now fit into the ear, like the Pro. However, no small rubber tip, yet more comfortable.
The AirPods 3 thus provide a slight passive isolation without creating a plug effect, which is very unpleasant for some users.
Finally, this new version is sweat and rain resistant. Athletes will be delighted.
Yes, if you have an iPhone
Apple has a considerable strike force, its ecosystem. All of the brand’s products communicate with each other with amazing ease, which makes users’ daily lives much more enjoyable.
Like their predecessors, the AirPods 3 necessarily inherit this asset. Thus, pairing with an iPhone, iPad or Mac does not take more than three seconds. As soon as you open the case a window appears on the other device. And it works !
Yes, for Space Audio
One of the big novelties of the AirPods 3 is the support for Spatial Audio. Available only on Apple Music, this technology allows you to listen to 360-degree sound for a more immersive experience.
The Apple Music catalog is also rapidly expanding with titles compatible with this format. On Apple TV +, programs are also available with Spatial Audio and / or Dolby Atmos. We believe this format represents the next big step in consumer audio. A good reason to adopt the AirPods 3 then.
Note also thatApple has improved the sound quality. A new driver reduces distortion, especially in the treble. The AirPods 3 also deliver more bass.
Yes, for autonomy
Incredible and magical headphones are good, as long as you can use them for several hours. Good news, the AirPods 3 are more enduring than the AirPods 2. Apple announces 6 hours of listening with a single charge and a case capable of recharging the headphones 4 times. In total we can therefore reach 30 hours of listening time on a single charge.
To not spoil anything, the case of these AirPods 3 is compatible with MagSafe, Apple’s magnetic wireless charging technology.
No, if you don’t have an Apple product
Make no mistake, it is entirely possible to use AirPods 3 with any product that has Bluetooth connectivity. On the other hand, pairing is not as easy as with Apple products.
It is also impossible to take advantage of all the features of AirPods 3 if they are associated with a device that has not been stamped with the Apple seal. Above all, there are other top-notch wireless headphones that are more affordable than these AirPods 3.
No, for the absence of active noise reduction
If you’re looking for Apple’s most advanced wireless headphones, the AirPods 3 isn’t for you. Unlike AirPods Pro, the new kids do not have active noise reduction technology.
Some will explain that this technology is more expensive. If we look at the competition, we see that wireless headphones sold for less than 150 euros have ANC.
AirPods 3 don’t have noise canceling or transparent mode to amplify outside sounds. This is also explained by their format: since they do not block the ear, no need for transparent mode.
No, for their high price
It’s not really a surprise, the price of AirPods 3 is high. Apple assumes its positioning as a luxury tech brand and therefore offers its wireless headphones without ANC for 199 euros.
If you don’t have an iPhone and / or don’t care what brand you want, you will probably find better wireless headphones with ANC for a more affordable price. On the other hand, you will not benefit from the Audio Spatial. But we can not have everything.
The AirPods 3 are available for pre-order now at a price of 199 euros. The first deliveries and marketing begin on October 26, 2021.
I am a technology author with 8 years of experience in journalism. My writing covers the latest technology advancements and trends, drawing on my expertise in news journalism and social media platforms. I have contributed to major media outlets such as The New York Times, The Wall Street Journal, and Reuters.
