Apple may launch new USB-C AirPods Pro this year

An analyst named Ming-Chi Kuo suggests that Apple may release a new version of its second-generation AirPods Pro with a USB-C case in the second or third quarter of this year.

However, Kuo clarifies that this update won't apply to the standard AirPod models (2 and 3) as Apple does not have any plans to release USB-C versions for them. Kuo hinted at this information in response to a tweet from a Twitter user who spotted references to new AirPods model and case numbers in iOS 16.4.

In September of last year, Apple unveiled the second generation of its AirPods Pro. These earbuds feature a Lightning port and are compatible with MagSafe, Qi, and Apple Watch chargers. Apple also added a few new features to the case, including a speaker that emits a noise when you use the Find My app to locate them, as well as a built-in loop where you can attach a lanyard.

It remains unclear whether the updated AirPods Pros will come with any other modifications, or if Apple will sell the rumoured USB-C case separately. Apple has previously released updated versions of its AirPods charging cases, such as the MagSafe option introduced for the AirPods Pro in 2021 and the Lightning-only charging case for the third-gen AirPods last year. However, Apple does not sell these cases separately.

Next year, the European Union will require many new electronic devices to have USB-C charging ports, which is why Apple's shift away from Lightning is not surprising. In fact, the company confirmed last year that it plans to switch the iPhone's connector to USB-C, and there are rumours that the iPhone 15 will have the port.

As for Apple's range of accessories, Bloomberg's Mark Gurman has predicted that USB-C could be introduced to AirPods and Mac accessories by 2024. Additionally, Kuo has previously stated that the fourth generation of AirPods may have a USB-C charging case and could be released in the second half of 2024 or the first half of 2025.