Apple's AirPods 3 could include a feature that lowers or cuts audio volume when danger is detected nearby.

A new patent granted to Apple describes the ability to change the audio output of headphones based on where the user is and what they are doing. The idea is that by intelligently lowering the audio level, the AirPods 3 and future Apple headphones could keep the wearer safe when they are near busy roads or other hazards.

Using a mix of location data collected by the earphones and GPS information retrieved from a connected iPhone or Apple Watch, future AirPods could be configured to provide "feedback, instructions, encouragement, advice, safety information, directions, etc."

Potential.

Dubbed the "Contextual Audio System," the patent also describes how such automatic audio tuning could work for cyclists. When a certain speed is reached, for which situational awareness is key, the earphones can automatically pause the audio being played.

While safety advice appears to be at the heart of this patent, sensor information can also be used to bring coaching and feedback to the wearable by tracking how the user is doing during exercise. The running coach feature is available on Samsung's Galaxy Watch 3, so it would not be surprising if Apple took this idea and developed a contextual audio system.

There are a number of patents from Apple that hint at potential AirPods 3 features. However, many of the technologies foretold in the patents will not appear in the real world. Apple's next hardware event will likely be held in September with a focus on the iPhone 12, so the company's new earbuds could make an early appearance.