AirPods 3 Offer Improved In-Ear Detection Mechanism

Apple's third generation AirPods offer an improved in-ear detection mechanism. The enhancement was detailed in TrendForce's 2021 Infrared Sensing Market Trend - 3D Sensing, LiDAR, SWIR LED report.

Through the integration of PPG (photoplethysmography) technology, the AirPods 3 contain an improved in-ear detection mechanism based on skin-detect sensors that are equipped with four SWIR (short-wave infrared) LED chips that have two different wavelengths, as well as two InGaAs photodiodes. Industry insiders indicate that the AirPods 3’s skin-detect sensors may potentially detect the water content in the wearer’s skin, giving them the ability to differentiate between human skin and other surfaces.

Apple did mention this new sensor in its press release...


A new skin-detect sensor accurately discerns if AirPods are in the ear — versus in a pocket or on a table — and pauses playback when removed.

You can learn more about the new AirPods 3 here. They are already available to order online for $179.

TrendForce expects Apple to ship 85 million sets of AirPods in 2022, a 3.7% YoY increase.

[via LEDInside] [via 9to5Mac]