Apple Launches Lunar New Year AirPods Pro 3 Special Edition for the Year of the Horse

Apple has unveiled a special Lunar New Year edition of the AirPods Pro (3rd generation) to celebrate the upcoming Year of the Horse. The limited-edition release continues Apple’s annual tradition of zodiac-themed hardware, offering a subtle but distinctive cosmetic update for the holiday.

The special edition is available exclusively in select Asian markets and features a custom horse engraving on the charging case and packaging. Aside from the visual touch, the earbuds remain identical to the standard model introduced last September.

What’s Special About the Year of the Horse Edition

The Year of the Horse AirPods Pro 3 retain the same pricing and technical specifications as the regular version. The only difference is the design, which includes:

• A horse character icon with a tassel-style motif
• Custom Lunar New Year-themed packaging
• A unique engraving on the front of the USB-C MagSafe Charging Case

Apple notes that the changes are purely cosmetic, making this release primarily aimed at collectors or those looking for a festive gift.

AirPods Pro 3 Features Remain the Same

Under the hood, the special edition includes all the features of the standard AirPods Pro 3, such as:

• The H2 chip for improved Active Noise Cancellation
• A built-in heart rate sensor for fitness tracking
• Up to 8 hours of listening time on a single charge
• USB-C MagSafe Charging Case compatibility

Functionally, users can expect the exact same experience as the regular AirPods Pro 3.

Availability and Purchase Limits

Customers in China, Hong Kong, Taiwan, Singapore, and Malaysia can place orders starting today through Apple’s online store and retail locations. Due to limited supply, Apple is restricting purchases to two units per customer.

While orders are open now, shipments are expected to begin on January 8. Apple also notes that if a special edition unit requires replacement and inventory is unavailable, a standard AirPods Pro 3 model may be provided instead.

Part of Apple’s Lunar New Year Tradition

This release joins a growing list of Apple’s Lunar New Year exclusives, following previous editions celebrating the Year of the Dragon, Ox, Tiger, Rabbit, and Snake. The Lunar New Year officially begins on February 17, 2026, and Apple has once again leaned into cultural celebration through limited-run designs.

More Lunar New Year Accessories

Alongside the special edition AirPods, Apple has curated a selection of themed accessories for the holiday, including:

• The Nimble Champ Stretch 10K Charger – Special LNY Edition
• Tech21 FlexQuartz cases for the iPhone 17 Pro and iPhone Air
• Lunar New Year-themed Bellroy bags and organizers
• EvoArt covers for AirTag

These accessories are also available in limited quantities, depending on region.

A Subtle, Collectible Touch for the Holiday

Apple’s Year of the Horse AirPods Pro 3 don’t reinvent the product, but they do offer a tasteful, collectible option for Lunar New Year celebrations. For fans of Apple’s annual zodiac releases, this edition continues a tradition that blends familiar hardware with cultural symbolism.