There’s just one week left until the biggest event in Apple’s yearly calendar: the launch of the latest iPhone models. But some expert pundits have opined that the peripheral devices that launch alongside the iPhone 17 may actually be more exciting. The Apple Watch Series 11 and AirPods Pro 3, both of which are expected to land this month, have the potential to wow the market with upgrades and new features.
Sadly, however, a last-minute report indicates that one of the more highly anticipated features won’t be ready in time for the AirPods Pro 3 launch. According to an anonymous tipster who got in touch with 9to5Mac, live translation isn’t on the cards to be available out of the box.
On the plus side, it doesn’t appear that the feature has been abandoned, only that it’s been delayed. What’s more, the tipster says live translation “will likely be added in a later software update.” Apple has already announced that live translation in the Phone, Messages, and FaceTime apps is a major part of the iOS 26 update, but has thus far left AirPods out of the conversation.
So you’ll reportedly be able to buy the AirPods Pro 3 at launch, enjoy the other improvements, then benefit later when the feature drops as part of a free update. On the other hand, some customers may have been burned last year when they bought the iPhone 16 on the strength of Apple Intelligence features that were expected to land in an update, but were repeatedly delayed and, in some cases, still haven’t arrived.
Even if live translation doesn’t make the launch slate, the AirPods Pro 3 should still have plenty to offer. Aside from a new chip, improved noise cancellation, and a stylish redesign (including a new-look charging case), the new headphones will get two new health sensors, according to the tipster: heart rate and temperature. Both of which would fit in well as Apple looks to pivot the AirPods to a more rounded and health-focused wearable.
The iPhone 17 and Apple Watch Series 11 will be announced at the “Awe Dropping” September 9, likely alongside the AirPods Pro 3, though some reports suggest they may have to wait until later in the fall. Either way, you can catch all the latest news and rumors in our regularly updated new AirPods hub article.
Apple’s Awe Dropping event is set for September 9, 2025. Want to know what to expect? We’re anticipating new hardware releases including the iPhone 17 (running iOS 26), Apple Watch Series 11, Ultra 3 and SE 3rd-gen (running watchOS 26), and potentially new AirPods. Find out how, when, and where to watch the Apple September Event, and keep tuned to our Event Guide for all the latest coverage. If you just can’t wait, here’s our satirical take on the Apple September Event keynote script – and don’t miss the Macworld Podcast iPhone event preview.
Author: David Price, Editor, Macworld
David has been writing about technology for well over two decades, and got on board the Apple hype train when covering the original iPhone launch in 2007. He is an enthusiastic Apple Watch evangelist and feels that the HomePod is misunderstood.