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.
AirPods (3rd generation): key facts
When was the AirPods (3rd generation) released?
The AirPods (3rd generation) was released in 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 are the AirPods (3rd generation)’s specs?
The AirPods (3rd generation) used a Apple H1, with None of memory. It ran Driver / firmware support.
Why does the AirPods (3rd generation) matter?
Spatial Audio and sweat resistance for standard AirPods.
Full specifications
| CPU | Apple H1 |
|---|---|
| Cores | — |
| Memory (RAM) | None |
| Storage | — |
| Display | None |
| GPU | N/A |
| 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).
Cross-architecture speed figures are clock-only and approximate; inflation figures use US CPI.
Did you know?
It is the kind of model collectors use to map Apple’s complicated family tree.
Related Audio models
Open the AirPods (3rd generation) in the interactive archive →
Last updated: 2026-06-27