On Tuesday, Apple and Beats introduced the highly anticipated Powerbeats Pro 2 wireless earbuds, bringing new and advanced features to the table. Among these features is a heart rate sensor, a first for Apple outside of the Apple Watch. This addition stands out, especially given that it’s part of a workout-focused product like the Powerbeats Pro. It hints at the possibility of future audio products, including AirPods, incorporating similar health-related technology.
Heart Rate Sensor in the Powerbeats Pro 2
The standout feature of the Powerbeats Pro 2 is undoubtedly the heart rate sensor. This makes them the first Apple accessory, aside from the Apple Watch, to include a health-related sensor. Given the workout-centric nature of the Powerbeats Pro, the inclusion of this sensor is a logical progression, but it is still surprising that it’s debuting in a Beats product.
This move suggests that Apple is prioritizing health features in its audio devices, potentially expanding this technology across their wearable range in the future.
While the heart rate sensor is currently exclusive to the Powerbeats Pro 2, there are strong indications that Apple will soon bring similar features to its AirPods lineup. Reports suggest that Apple is working on integrating health sensors, including a heart rate sensor, into future AirPods models.
The next generation of AirPods Pro, likely to be released in the near future, may feature the heart rate sensor that is making its debut in the Powerbeats Pro 2. These advancements suggest a focus on health monitoring becoming a key part of Apple’s strategy for their audio devices.
Other Innovations for Future AirPods
In addition to the heart rate sensor, Apple is reportedly exploring further health-related innovations for AirPods. One such development includes the potential for sensors that could detect body temperature via the ear canal.
Another exciting possibility is the integration of camera sensors into AirPods. However, these technologies are not expected to appear in the upcoming AirPods Pro 3. For now, the focus seems to be on refining the health-related features and enhancing the AirPods’ overall functionality.
Looking to the next AirPods Pro, a redesign is anticipated, though specific details about its appearance remain unclear. As for the standard AirPods model, the recent update brought new features such as active noise cancellation and a refreshed design, so another new version is unlikely in the immediate future. Additionally, following last year’s refresh of the AirPods Max with USB-C, Apple has no significant updates planned for this high-end model in the near term.