The next AirPods Pro are rumored to have improved noise cancellation, heart rate tracking, and live translation features.

The new earbuds are being marketed as AirPods Pro 3, which may seem unusual to some since the prior model was not called AirPods Pro 2. This has led to some speculation that a more innovative model with a completely new array of features could be released in the near future.

These include:

* Integrated heart rate monitor

* Redesigned structure for improved fit and comfort

* Live Translation driven by Apple Intelligence

* ANC twice as effective as the previous generation, or four times the original AirPods Pro

* IP57-rated sweat and water resistance

* Increased battery life

As anticipated, Apple is expanding the number one feature of the Powerbeats Pro 2 to a larger customer base after a successful trial. Similar to the company's Beats earbuds, heart rate sensing will only be available during workouts, which is still more beneficial than other mainstream earbuds available today.

However, the AirPods Pro 3 have capabilities beyond fitness tracking. They also use software to translate conversations in real time. This means that theoretically, you can travel to another country and have a conversation with someone who speaks another language.

Live Translation is launching in beta for English, French, German, Portuguese, and Spanish. Support for Italian, Japanese, Korean, and Chinese is expected by the end of the year, though there is no word on when the beta testing period will end.

Despite rumors, the AirPods Pro 3 greatly improves the audio performance and noise cancellation of previous models. Apple is calling this product the best in the world for noise cancellation among in-ear headphones.

Can the Galaxy Buds 3 Pro or Google's Pixel Buds Pro 2 or Sony's WF-1000XM5 monitor your heart rate during physical activity? No, they cannot. That places Apple in a prime position to maintain its top spot in global earbud sales and possibly boost its sales after a few years of moderate growth.

Of course, that is not the only thing that makes a pair of earbuds great, which is why it is beneficial that the AirPods Pro 3 have so much more to offer.

Available for pre-order now, Apple's newest earbuds are not more expensive than the AirPods Pro 2. You can purchase the world's best active noise cancellation (according to Apple) for $249.99, with shipping beginning on September 19.