How to Score Free AirPods Pro 3 with the Apple Card Promo

Introduction

According to a report from Bloomberg's Mark Gurman, Apple is preparing an enticing promotion for new Apple Card sign-ups at its U.S. retail stores. Starting as early as next week, customers who apply for and are approved for an Apple Card while purchasing AirPods Pro 3 in-store will receive $249 in Daily Cash—the exact price of the headphones. That effectively makes the AirPods Pro 3 free. While Apple hasn't officially announced the terms yet, you can prepare now to take full advantage once the offer goes live. This guide walks you through everything you need to know and the steps to claim your free AirPods Pro 3.

What You Need

Before heading to the store, make sure you have the following prerequisites ready:

• U.S. residency: The Apple Card is available only to residents of the United States.
• A nearby Apple Store: The promotion applies only to in-store purchases at Apple's retail locations. Online orders are not eligible.
• Valid government-issued ID: You'll need it for credit verification when applying for the Apple Card.
• Social Security Number or Individual Taxpayer Identification Number: Required for the credit application.
• iPhone or iPad with iOS 12.4 or later: The Apple Card is managed through the Wallet app, though you can apply in-store using a retail specialist's device.
• Good credit history: The Apple Card is a real credit card from Goldman Sachs (soon to be Chase), so approval depends on your creditworthiness.
• Funds or credit limit for the $249 purchase: Even though you'll get the cash back immediately, you still need to pay the full price upfront.

Step-by-Step Guide

Step 1: Monitor for Official Launch

Keep an eye on Apple's website and local Apple Store announcements. The promotion hasn't been officially confirmed, but once it goes live (likely early next week), you'll see in-store signage and possibly push notifications in the Wallet app. Call your local store or check the Apple Store app for inventory of AirPods Pro 3 and to confirm the promotion is active.

Step 2: Visit an Apple Retail Store

Go to any Apple Store in the U.S. during business hours. Bring your iPhone or iPad with the Wallet app ready, your ID, and your SSN/ITIN. If you don't have an iPhone, a store specialist can assist you using their device, but it's smoother if you have your own.

Step 3: Apply for the Apple Card

At the store, tell a Specialist that you'd like to sign up for the Apple Card as part of the AirPods Pro 3 promotion. The application process is nearly instant:

1. Open the Wallet app on your iPhone (or let the Specialist guide you through their device).
2. Tap the plus (+) icon and select "Apply for Apple Card."
3. Review the terms (interest rate, fees, etc.) and submit your application.
4. Wait for a credit decision—usually within seconds.

If approved, your Apple Card will be added to the Wallet app immediately. If not, you won't be able to get the promotion at this time.

Step 4: Purchase the AirPods Pro 3

Immediately after your Apple Card is activated, purchase the AirPods Pro 3 at the full retail price of $249. Use your new Apple Card to complete the transaction. The store can process the payment through the Wallet app using Apple Pay or by scanning a virtual card number. Make sure the Specialist links the purchase to the promotion—some may need to apply a special code.

Step 5: Receive Your $249 Daily Cash

Apple Card's Daily Cash is credited directly to your Apple Cash card (in the Wallet app) on the same day as the purchase. The $249 will appear in your Apple Cash balance typically within 24 hours. You can use this money immediately—transfer it to your bank, spend it via Apple Pay, or let it sit. Since $249 equals the price of the AirPods Pro 3, you've effectively gotten them for free (excluding any applicable taxes, which are not covered by the promo).

Step 6: Manage Your Apple Card and Optional Savings Account

Once you have the Apple Card, you can manage it entirely from the Wallet app:

• View color-coded spending summaries by category.
• Pay your bill with no fees—no annual, late, or foreign transaction fees.
• Set up a high-yield Apple Savings account (currently offered by Goldman Sachs) to earn interest on your Daily Cash. The $249 cash back can be deposited there automatically.

Note that the Apple Card is currently issued by Goldman Sachs, but Apple has announced that Chase will take over by early 2028. Your terms and features should remain the same through the transition.

Tips for a Smooth Experience

• Act fast: Promotions like these are often limited in quantity or duration. Visit the store as soon as you see the offer go live.
• Bring backup payment: If your Apple Card application is denied, you can still buy the AirPods Pro 3 with another method—but you won't get the $249 cash back. Consider having an alternative credit card ready.
• Understand the credit impact: Applying for the Apple Card results in a hard inquiry on your credit report. Only apply if you're confident in your credit score.
• Check for additional terms: The exact fine print may require you to keep the card open for a minimum period or may exclude certain states. Read the promotion details when announced.
• Already have an Apple Card? This offer is likely for new cardholders only. You cannot get the $249 cash back if you already have an Apple Card, unless Apple offers a similar deal for existing customers (unlikely).
• Maximize the savings: The $249 is post-tax? Typically, Daily Cash is based on the purchase amount. Since you pay $249 plus local sales tax, the cash back covers only the base price. You'll still be responsible for the tax, which may be a few dollars.
• Use the savings account: Park your $249 Daily Cash in the Apple Savings account to earn interest. It's a no-brainer bonus.

In summary, the upcoming Apple Card promo offers a rare opportunity to get AirPods Pro 3 for no net outlay—just your time and a good credit profile. By following these steps and preparing in advance, you'll be ready to snag the deal as soon as it launches.