Apple Card’s New Promotion: Get AirPods Pro 3 for Free – Everything You Need to Know

Apple is reportedly preparing a major shift in its Apple Card marketing strategy, offering new customers a chance to essentially get the upcoming AirPods Pro 3 for free. According to Bloomberg's Mark Gurman, a limited-time promotion set to launch in Apple retail stores would provide $249 in Daily Cash back to anyone who signs up for a new Apple Card and purchases the earbuds. This move signals a departure from Apple's typical low-key approach to credit card incentives, coming just as Chase prepares to take over the program from Goldman Sachs. Below, we break down the key details, how the offer works, and what it means for consumers.

What exactly is the new Apple Card promotion reportedly offering?

The rumored promotion, first reported by Bloomberg's Mark Gurman on May 15, centers on a signup bonus tied to the purchase of AirPods Pro 3. Customers who apply for and are approved for a new Apple Card in an Apple retail store, and simultaneously buy the AirPods Pro 3, would receive $249 in Daily Cash – the equivalent of the earbuds’ full retail price. This effectively makes the AirPods Pro 3 free after the cash back is credited. The promotion is expected to run during the week of May 18, and only applies to in-store transactions at Apple retail locations. This is a rare move for Apple, which has historically avoided large signup bonuses common across the credit card industry.

How does this promotion differ from Apple’s previous credit card marketing strategy?

Since launching the Apple Card in 2019, Apple has deliberately steered clear of the aggressive signup bonuses that many other credit cards use to attract customers. Instead, the company emphasized privacy features (no card numbers on the physical card), integration with Apple Wallet, spending transparency tools, and Daily Cash rewards that are paid out daily. The titanium physical card itself was marketed as a design statement. This new promotion, offering $249 back immediately, represents a dramatic shift toward using a high-value signup incentive – something Apple had previously avoided. It suggests Apple is willing to use short-term perks to drive adoption, especially as the program transitions under Chase's management.

Why is Apple changing its approach to Apple Card signup bonuses now?

Several factors likely contribute to this strategic shift. First, the Apple Card program has been underperforming relative to expectations, with Goldman Sachs reportedly losing money on it. The upcoming transition to Chase as the issuing bank means Apple wants to clear out existing accounts and attract new users before the changeover. By offering a free pair of AirPods Pro 3, Apple can quickly boost signups and generate positive press. Additionally, competition in the credit card space is intense – rivals like Chase, Citi, and Capital One regularly offer hefty signup bonuses. To stay relevant and grow the Apple Card user base, Apple may have concluded that a temporary bonus is necessary. The limited-time nature of the offer also creates urgency among consumers.

When and where will the free AirPods Pro 3 promotion be available?

According to Gurman's report, the promotion is planned to launch in Apple retail stores during the week of May 18. It appears to be an in-store exclusive; there is no mention of availability through Apple's online store or through third-party retailers. Customers must visit a physical Apple Store, apply for a new Apple Card at the point of sale (likely via the Wallet app or with the help of a specialist), and purchase the AirPods Pro 3 in the same transaction. The timing suggests Apple is aiming to capture back-to-school shoppers or early adopters of the new earbuds. Given that rumors score high on credibility (likely), consumers should be prepared to act quickly if they want to take advantage, as the offer may be limited to a specific window or while supplies last.

How do customers get the AirPods Pro 3 for free? What is the process?

To effectively get the AirPods Pro 3 at no cost, a customer needs to follow these steps:

• Visit an Apple retail store during the promotion period (starting week of May 18).
• Apply for a new Apple Card – this requires a credit check and approval, typically done through the Wallet app on an iPhone.
• Purchase the AirPods Pro 3 (priced at $249) in the same transaction, using the new Apple Card as the payment method.
• Apple will then credit the customer with $249 in Daily Cash (which is 1% back normally, but here it's a bonus). Daily Cash is added to the Apple Cash card and can be used immediately for purchases or sent to friends.

Since the AirPods cost $249 and the bonus is $249, the net out-of-pocket cost is zero – assuming the customer pays the full amount with the Apple Card and then uses the Daily Cash to offset the balance. In practice, the Daily Cash can be used to pay down the card statement or spent elsewhere. It's essentially a signup bonus for new cardholders.

What is the source of this rumor and how credible is it?

The rumor originates from Mark Gurman of Bloomberg, a journalist with a strong track record for Apple-related leaks and insights. Gurman reported the promotion on May 15, giving it a Rumor Score of “Likely” (often represented as a shocked emoji). AppleInsider, the outlet that published the original article, also considers the tip credible. While Apple has not officially confirmed the offer, Gurman's sources typically come from within Apple or its partner banks. The timing aligns with the March 2025 release of the Apple Card’s transition to Chase, making this a plausible incentive to boost signups. Readers should treat it as likely true, but wait for official confirmation from Apple before making purchasing decisions. Given Gurman's accuracy, this is a high-probability rumor.

What does this promotion mean for the Apple Card’s future with Chase taking over?

The Apple Card program is currently transitioning from Goldman Sachs to Chase, which is expected to take over as the issuing bank in the coming months. Goldman Sachs has reportedly struggled to make the card profitable, leading to this change. A promotion that effectively gives away a premium product like AirPods Pro 3 could help clean up existing accounts (attracting new cardholders under Chase's terms) and demonstrate momentum to Chase. For Chase, inheriting a larger, more active user base is beneficial. The promotion also signals that Apple is willing to invest in customer acquisition even as the partnership shifts. Long-term, this could mean more competitive rewards and offers as Chase brings its expertise in credit card rewards programs to the table. However, the current promotion is likely a one-time effort tied to the transition, not a permanent change in strategy.

Are there any other details or fine print about the promotion?

While full terms are not yet published, we can infer some likely conditions based on typical Apple Card promotions. The offer will probably require a new Apple Card approval – existing cardholders may not qualify. The $249 Daily Cash bonus is likely credited after the purchase is completed, possibly within a few business days. Customers must purchase the AirPods Pro 3 in-store during the promotional period; online orders or later returns might forfeit the bonus. It’s uncertain if the promotion applies to all AirPods Pro 3 models or only the standard version. Additionally, the bonus may be subject to a spending threshold (e.g., the purchase must be at least $249). As with any credit card offer, approval is not guaranteed and depends on creditworthiness. Shoppers should confirm with Apple Store staff before applying. Given the “Likely” rumor score, it’s wise to monitor Apple’s official announcements and the Apple Card website for exact terms.