Audio · Apple Silicon · 2021
AirPods (3rd generation)
AirPods 3 borrowed the shorter-stem design and spatial-audio tricks from AirPods Pro without using silicone tips.
Spatial Audio and sweat resistance for standard AirPods.
AirPods Pro (2nd generation) (2022)
AirPods (3rd generation): key facts
When was the AirPods (3rd generation) released?
The AirPods (3rd generation) arrived on October 26, 2021. Apple discontinued it in September 2024.
How much did the AirPods (3rd generation) cost?
The AirPods (3rd generation) launched at $179 in 2021, about $208 in today’s money (approximate, US CPI).
What specs stand out?
Key specs: Apple H1, Lightning / MagSafe case.
Why does the AirPods (3rd generation) matter?
Spatial Audio and sweat resistance for standard AirPods.
Full specifications
| CPU | Apple H1 |
|---|---|
| Cores | — |
| Memory (RAM) | — |
| Storage | — |
| Display | — |
| GPU | — |
| Ports | Lightning / MagSafe case |
| Weight | Varies by model |
| Dimensions | Contoured earbuds + charging case |
| Operating system | Driver/firmware support |
| Released | October 26, 2021 |
| Discontinued | September 2024 |
| Launch price | $179 |
How the AirPods (3rd generation) compares to today
Launched at $179 in 2021, about $208 in today’s money (approx., US CPI).
Method note: clock comparisons use frequency only; price conversions use US CPI.
Sources
Specs checked against Apple technical specifications archive, EveryMac, Mactracker, Wikimedia Commons image credits.
Related Audio models
Open the AirPods (3rd generation) in the interactive archive →
Last updated: 2026-08-11