Strava now lets AirPods Pro 3 act as a heart rate monitor

A new Strava app update reveals support for AirPods Pro 3 as a live heart rate source during workout recording. The app description explains that users can stream heart rate “straight from your ears” while recording activities through Strava’s Mobile Record feature.

The wording also suggests Strava can work alongside an Apple Watch at the same time. According to the update notes, the app will automatically select the strongest signal source so users get the most accurate reading possible during workouts.

A more lightweight approach to heart rate tracking

Strava has also published official support documentation for the feature. The company says AirPods Pro 3 heart rate tracking requires iOS 18 or later, with heart rate data appearing directly on the workout recording screen once the earbuds are connected.

The setup process sounds intentionally simple. Users pair the earbuds, open Strava and start recording. There is no separate Bluetooth pairing flow inside the app and no additional hardware required.

A lot of people already wear earbuds during runs, gym sessions and walks. If those same earbuds can provide usable heart rate data, it removes one more device from the equation. For casual exercise and quick sessions, that could be enough.

Probably not replacing a Garmin any time soon

There are still obvious limits to what this can do. The feature currently depends on AirPods Pro 3, iOS 18 and the Strava iPhone app. It also works specifically through Mobile Record rather than functioning as a universal Bluetooth heart rate broadcaster.

Accuracy will also matter. Ear-based heart rate sensing has improved a lot in recent years, but it still needs real-world testing across harder workouts, rapid intensity changes and longer training sessions. That said, Strava clearly sees enough value here to build direct support into the app.

The move also fits a broader shift happening across wearables. Health tracking is slowly spreading into devices people already use throughout the day instead of staying limited to dedicated sports watches and chest straps.

Smart rings are moving in that direction. Screenless fitness bands are doing the same. Now earbuds are becoming part of the picture too.

AirPods Pro 3 acting as a live heart rate sensor inside Strava feels like another step in that trend. It may not replace a proper sports watch for serious athletes, but it does lower the barrier for people who want simple workout tracking without extra gear.