How to use AirPods Pro 3 heart rate sensing
- Key Takeaways:
- AirPods Pro 3 include a built-in heart rate sensor that logs data to the iPhone Health app and can close Activity rings without an Apple Watch.
- Enable the feature in iPhone Settings by selecting your AirPods Pro 3 and toggling “Heart Rate.”
- Accuracy improves with a proper fit, up-to-date Health profile, clean earbuds, and avoiding ear obstructions.
What the feature does
AirPods Pro 3 add heart rate sensing to Apple’s earbud lineup, letting users capture pulse data during workouts and everyday use. Readings are stored in the Apple Health app and can feed Apple Fitness+ and iPhone activity tracking.
Why this matters
This brings basic heart monitoring to users who don’t own an Apple Watch, enabling them to close Activity rings and see heart-rate trends tied to workouts. Apple also integrates the data into Fitness+ for on-screen metrics during classes.
How to enable heart rate sensing
While wearing your AirPods Pro 3, open the iPhone Settings app. Tap the name of your AirPods at the top of the Settings page, scroll to the bottom and locate the “Heart Rate” option, then toggle it on.
Syncing to Apple Health
Once enabled, heart-rate readings are automatically logged to the Health app. Open Health and use the search icon, then choose “Heart” to view recent measurements, long-term trends, and workout-linked data.
Tips to improve accuracy
Apple recommends several steps to get more reliable readings:
1. Check the fit
Run the AirPods fit test in Settings to ensure a secure seal. A proper fit helps sensors read pulse signals more consistently.
2. Update Health profile
Make sure your height, weight, age, and sex are accurate in the Health app; those details affect heart-rate calculations.
3. Keep AirPods clean
Remove earwax and debris that could block sensors. Regular cleaning improves contact and sensor performance.
4. Watch for ear factors
Moisture, skin conditions, ear piercings, or heavy jewelry near the ear can interfere with readings.
Apple Watch integration and source priority
If you wear both AirPods Pro 3 and an Apple Watch, both devices may capture heart-rate data. Apple records the “highest-confidence source” at each moment, choosing the most reliable sensor for logging.
Bottom line
AirPods Pro 3’s heart rate sensing extends useful health tracking to earbuds. Enable it in Settings, follow Apple’s accuracy tips, and view results in Apple Health or Fitness+ for workout metrics without needing an Apple Watch.
