Prime Day 2026: Apple Watch Series 11 and AirPods Pro 3 Lead Discount Wave
From record-low earbud prices to durable new smartwatches, the 2026 Prime Day landscape offers significant savings, though some initial deals have already sold out.
Amazon’s 2026 Prime Day sale has officially commenced, with discounts on Apple products kicking off ahead of the main event. The initial wave of deals has seen the Apple Watch Series 11 drop to a new low price, while the AirPods Pro 3 hit a record-low $169 at Walmart. However, that specific Walmart deal has already sold out, leaving consumers looking to other retailers for similar value.
Current discounted prices for the AirPods Pro 3 are available at both Amazon and Best Buy for $179. While the $169 price point has vanished, the volatile nature of the sale means it could return, according to reporting from The Verge. The publication notes that its deal guides may earn commissions from purchases, a standard practice in tech journalism that does not alter the factual availability of the hardware.
Beyond the earbuds, the sale highlights a broad range of Apple hardware with updated specifications. The Apple Watch Series 11, despite maintaining the same physical dimensions as its predecessor, features a display that is twice as durable. Cellular models now include a 5G modem, and the device offers slightly improved battery life, positioning it as a robust upgrade for existing users.
The Apple Watch SE 3 also sees strong promotion, offering an always-on display and Apple’s S10 chip, which enables on-device Siri requests. This represents a significant step up from previous entry-level models. Meanwhile, the latest AirPods Pro feature improved noise cancellation, richer bass, and built-in heart sensors compatible with Apple’s Fitness app, allowing for calorie tracking across more than 50 workout types.
Other notable discounts include Apple’s over-ear headphones, which utilise the H2 chip to enable features such as live translation, and the Beats Studio Pro, which supports lossless audio over USB-C. The sale also covers the entry-level iPad, powered by an A16 processor, and the latest AirTag, which boasts an upgraded ultra-wideband chip and a louder speaker.
In response to Amazon’s dominance, competitors have launched their own counter-measures. Walmart has introduced 'Walmart Deals' to contest Prime Day, offering items such as JBL speakers and Roku sticks without members-only restrictions. This competitive pressure has created a favourable environment for consumers seeking discounts on electronics, echoing trends from previous years where Prime Day featured deals on Anker power banks and Kindle Paperwhite models.
As the event progresses, retailers are expected to adjust pricing dynamically. Shoppers are advised to monitor availability closely, particularly for high-demand items like the AirPods Pro 3, where initial flash sales have already depleted stock at certain vendors.
