Apple has introduced an enticing offer for new Apple Card holders: the chance to effectively get a free pair of AirPods Pro 3. However, like most good deals, it comes with specific conditions. This promotion rewards monthly spending habits over ten months, but only if you meet certain purchase thresholds. Below, we break down the key questions about this offer to help you decide if it's worth signing up.
What exactly is the Apple Card AirPods Pro 3 promotion?
New Apple Card holders who purchase AirPods Pro 3 directly from Apple by June 15, 2025 can earn back the full $249 cost through monthly cash rebates. Starting July 1, 2025, and continuing through April 30, 2027, cardholders receive $25 in Bonus Daily Cash each month—but only in months where they make at least ten separate purchases on the card. Over a maximum of ten qualifying months, you could earn up to $250 in total cash back, effectively making the AirPods Pro 3 free.
How do I qualify for the free AirPods Pro 3 offer?
To qualify, you must be a new Apple Card applicant—existing cardholders or those with pending applications are not eligible. You need to open a new Apple Card account and then purchase the AirPods Pro 3 directly from Apple (online or in an Apple Store). The purchase cannot be made entirely using an Apple Gift Card or Apple Account balance. Both paying in full and financing via Apple Card Monthly Installments are accepted, and any trade-in credit does not affect eligibility.
What are the monthly spending requirements to earn the $25 cash back?
Each month from July 2025 through April 2027, you must make at least ten purchases on your Apple Card. Each purchase must be at least $0.01. Importantly, the original AirPods Pro 3 purchase itself does not count toward this ten-purchase monthly threshold. So you'll need to use your card for other small transactions—like buying apps, coffee, or groceries—to trigger the monthly $25 bonus.
Are there any restrictions on where or how I buy the AirPods?
Yes, the AirPods Pro 3 must be purchased directly from Apple. This includes both Apple.com and physical Apple Stores. Excluded purchases include refurbished products, items bought through third-party retailers (like Amazon or Best Buy), international transactions, and bulk orders for businesses. Additionally, the offer cannot be combined with payment entirely from Apple Gift Cards or Apple Account balances, though partial use is allowed alongside your Apple Card.
What happens if I return the AirPods Pro 3?
Returning the AirPods Pro 3 may result in forfeiture of the entire promotion. If you decide to send them back, you could lose any Bonus Daily Cash already earned and become ineligible for future monthly rebates. It's best to be certain of your purchase before taking advantage of this offer.
What are the AirPods Pro 3 specifications and price?
The AirPods Pro 3 are priced at $249 and were introduced alongside the iPhone 17 lineup in September 2025. They offer improved active noise cancellation, adaptive audio, and a new design. While the promotion doesn't affect the headphones' features, it does provide a path to getting them at no net cost—provided you meet the spending conditions over ten months.