Apple has been dominating the market with its AirPods series, which has become one of the most popular true wireless earphones. According to recent reports, Apple is set to launch the AirPods Pro 2’s USB-C version later this year, likely between 2Q23-3Q23, with mass shipments expected during this period.
The news comes after Apple released the iOS 16.4 release candidate for developers, which includes references to new AirPods with model code A3048 and a new AirPods case bearing model designation A2968. Renowned analyst Ming Chi-Kuo believes that these new AirPods are likely to be the USB-C version of the AirPods Pro 2 that was launched last year, which currently feature a Lightning port.
However, it’s unclear whether the upcoming AirPods Pro 2’s USB-C version will only change the charging case or if there will be any other hardware changes. Kuo didn’t provide any further information on the potential upgrades that the new earphones may offer.
Interestingly, Apple is expected to launch the iPhone 15 lineup this year with a USB-C port instead of the Lightning port currently used on Apple’s mobile devices. Despite this, Kuo claims that Apple has no plans for USB-C versions of AirPods 2 and 3, suggesting that the AirPods Pro 2 will be the first TWS earphones from Apple to switch from Lightning port to USB-C.
With the increasing popularity of USB-C charging, the move to a USB-C version of AirPods Pro 2 could be a smart one for Apple, especially as the demand for wireless earphones continues to grow. Whether the new earphones will offer any significant upgrades to justify an upgrade from the current AirPods Pro 2 remains to be seen, but the launch of the USB-C version of AirPods Pro 2 is something to look forward to for Apple fans.
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