AirPods Pro 3 Brings Heart Rate Monitoring to Your Ears, Raising Questions About Apple Watch Necessity

New AirPods Pro Feature Raises Questions About Apple Watch Necessity In a move that could potentially disrupt the wearable market, Apple has confirmed that its latest AirPods Pro 3 model will feature in-ear heart rate sensing. This development, combined with iOS 26 updates to the iPhone's Fitness app, enables users to track their heart rate, time spent exercising, and calories burned without needing an Apple Watch. According to Jada Jones, Editor at ZDNET, "The AirPods Pro 3's fitness tracking features are a game-changer for people who habitually use the free Fitness app tier. It's an even more welcomed upgrade if you're like me and fitness tracking is the only reason you're tethered to your Apple Watch." With this new feature, users can start a workout session in the Fitness app and use their AirPods Pro 3 earbuds to track their progress. They can also close their Move ring and earn rewards in the app, eliminating the need for an Apple Watch. Background on the development of wearable technology reveals that companies have been working to integrate health monitoring features into various devices, including headphones. This trend is driven by consumer demand for seamless and convenient tracking solutions. Industry experts note that this move could potentially disrupt the market for dedicated wearables like smartwatches. "The AirPods Pro 3's fitness tracking features are a significant upgrade for users who prioritize convenience and ease of use," said Nina Raemont, ZDNET contributor. "If these features work as well as Apple claims they will, it may be time to reconsider the need for an Apple Watch." As the wearable market continues to evolve, consumers can expect more innovative solutions that blur the lines between devices. The AirPods Pro 3's in-ear heart rate sensing feature is a significant step forward in this direction. Current Status and Next Developments The AirPods Pro 3 with in-ear heart rate sensing is expected to be available for purchase soon, with iOS 26 updates rolling out to compatible devices. As users begin to experience the benefits of this new feature, it will be interesting to see how it impacts the wearable market. In the meantime, consumers are advised to keep an eye on their AirPods Pro 3 and iPhone Fitness app for updates on this exciting development. With its potential to revolutionize fitness tracking, the AirPods Pro 3's in-ear heart rate sensing feature is definitely worth keeping an eye on. *Reporting by Zdnet.*