Apple is preparing a promotion that gives new Apple Card customers a credit to obtain a pair of AirPods Pro 3 for free [1], [2].
The move comes as the company seeks to accelerate growth for its financial services arm during a period of significant transition. The incentive arrives as Chase prepares to take over the program from Goldman Sachs [2], [4].
According to reports, the promotion will provide a $249 cash-back credit [1]. This amount matches the retail value of the AirPods Pro 3 [2]. The offer is expected to be available at Apple retail stores in the U.S. [1].
Industry sources said the program could launch as early as next week [1], [3]. The promotion is designed to attract new applicants to the credit card by offsetting the cost of the hardware with immediate cash-back rewards [2].
Apple has previously used similar hardware bundles and credits to drive adoption of its ecosystem services. By tying the credit to the Apple Card, the company creates a direct financial link between the user's spending habits and its hardware products, a strategy that increases long-term customer retention.
This specific offer focuses on the U.S. market, where the Apple Card has faced competition from traditional banking institutions and evolving consumer credit trends [1].
“Apple is preparing a promotion that gives new Apple Card customers a credit to obtain a pair of AirPods Pro 3 for free.”
This promotion signals a high-stakes effort by Apple to maintain momentum for its credit product during a leadership transition between banking partners. By offering a high-value incentive like the AirPods Pro 3, Apple is likely prioritizing user acquisition over short-term margins to ensure the handover from Goldman Sachs to Chase does not result in a loss of customer interest or a dip in new enrollments.
