Last week we saw by surprise how the latest beta of iOS 16.4 included a reference to new AirPods. In the code of the vision appeared a serial number for some AirPods and also for a charging case that are not yet on the market.
At that time we already raised the possibility that we were talking about a small revision of the headset. But, a revision… for what? Well, to add the USB-C charging port. But the news leaves aside other headsets.
New AirPods, new connector
According to analyst Ming-Chi Kuo, Apple is working on launching new AirPods Pro with USB-C connector in the near future. The information comes from Kuo’s Twitter account, who also comments that large-scale shipments are expected to be concentrated during the second and third quarter of 2023.
The analyst also noted that there are no plans to launch USB-C versions of the AirPods 2 nor the AirPods 3. This would mean that, to enjoy a single connector, we should wait for the AirPods 4, of which no details have yet been unveiled and which, for all we know, may still be quite some time away from launch. That’s considering that the AirPods 3 were renewed in October 2021.
While in the same Kuo tweet some users raise the question of why there is a reference to new headphones, not just a new case, for now the USB-C theory is the one that fits best with everything we know.
Apple has been working on the transition to USB-C for its products for some time now. A move that, while it would only be mandatory in Europe, Apple is, as far as we know, going to make worldwide so that we can all enjoy a single new charging and connection port.
Recall that, in the past, Apple already updated the AirPods catalog to sell a new MagSafe compatible charging case, for example. A move that could now be repeated by replacing the connector.
In any case, even if it is through leaks and rumors, the arrival of the new AirPods Pro with USB-C is great news. The transition to this new charging port will allow us a more efficient and, above all, convenient charging experience. A single connector for all our AirPods and other devices.
