Is the AirPods Pro 3 'Bloodgate' ear injury issue real?

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You may have seen alarming reports about AirPods Pro 3 causing ear pain, cuts, or bleeding. The internet has dubbed this "Bloodgate." While the reports are real, here's the full picture.

What's Actually Happening?

Some users have experienced genuine injuries after extended use. Healthcare professionals have identified these as pressure injuries caused by sustained contact in one spot. The likely culprit is the new heart rate sensor Apple added to AirPods Pro 3.

The sensor sits on the inner surface of each earbud and needs skin contact to function. Unlike ear tips where you can choose different sizes, the sensor position is fixed—it presses against the same spot regardless of which tip size you use. For some ear shapes, this creates constant pressure that can restrict blood flow to that area.

How Common Is This?

This appears to affect a minority of users. Many people use their AirPods Pro 3 daily without issues. Whether you're affected likely depends on your individual ear anatomy and how long you wear them without breaks.

What to Do If You're Affected

Immediate steps:

• Stop using the earbuds if you notice bleeding or open sores
• Clean the area gently and apply over-the-counter antibiotic ointment
• See a doctor if pain persists or you notice signs of infection

Prevention strategies:

• Take regular breaks during extended listening sessions
• Try different ear tip sizes to shift pressure points
• Consider third-party silicone covers for cushioning

Getting help: Contact Apple Support—some customers have received exchanges, though responses have been inconsistent. Online support channels may yield better results than in-store visits.