Overview

• Apple added an infrared photoplethysmography sensor to AirPods Pro 3 that samples at 256 Hz and uses motion data to estimate heart rate from the ear canal.
• Heart‑rate readings sync to the iPhone Fitness app and display live metrics in Fitness+, including support for the Workout Buddy feature.
• Apple cites roughly 6 to 6.5 hours of battery life per charge when heart‑rate monitoring is active during workouts.
• Validation and early reviews report credible results at rest and during steady exercise, with potential drift during abrupt movement or a poor ear seal.
• Comparisons position Garmin chest‑strap HRMs as the accuracy benchmark and Coros optical armbands as a solid middle ground, with AirPods Pro 3 best suited to everyday convenience rather than interval‑training precision.