Apple also took the wraps off its next-generation AirPods at the Unleashed event held on October 18, 2021. The all-new AirPods feature spatial audio, longer battery life, apart from a new design.

The third-gen AirPods are lightweight and they resemble AirPods Pro and thus this makes it a bit different from its own lineup in terms of appearance. The stems of the AirPods are now shortened, however, they do not feature the in-ear silicone tips like available on the AirPods Pro. Apple claims the design has been contoured so that they fit just right into your ear.

The new AirPods 3 are resistant to sweat and water, thanks to the IPX4 rating for both the earbuds and the charging case.

The 3rd-gen AirPods feature a Force sensor for pressure controls, just like AirPods Pro. Apple claims the beam-forming microphones block out ambient noise and focus on the user’s voice.

Just like the AirPods 2, the all-new AirPods 3 also come powered by the H1 chip that further combines with an Apple-designed acoustic system, and uses computational audio to deliver sound Adaptive EQ, where the latter tries to tune the low and mid frequencies “to account for what may be lost due to variances in fit.”

AirPods 3 have support for spatial audio that creates a three-dimensional theatre-like experience. They also support Hey Siri for hands-free support and Dolby Atmos for better sound. Apple claims the new pair of earbuds uses an advanced spatial audio algorithm and applies directional audio filters to adjust the frequencies that each ear receives.

The battery life of the AirPods 3 is rated at six hours from the earbuds themselves, with the case providing four additional full charges for a total of 30 hours. This is a bumped over 24 hours provided by AirPods 2. Also, the five minutes of fast charging lets you enjoy an hour of battery life.

AirPods 3 also support MagSafe so that you can wirelessly charge them with a MagSafe charger. The earbuds are now part of the Find My network of devices as well, thus offering proximity view in the Find My app and Lost Mode, as well as separation alerts and sounds.

The all-new 3rd-gen AirPods can be ordered for $179 and they will become available in more than 27 countries and regions on October 26. Also, with the new Apple Music Voice Plan, users can enjoy millions of songs, playlists, and stations in the Apple Music catalog through Siri. The Apple Music Voice Plan will be available later this fall in select countries and regions for $4.99 per month.

Apple Music Voice Plan won't give you access to "premium offerings" like spatial audio, lossless audio, lyrics, music videos, "and more." This plan will be available "later this fall" in 17 countries and regions