While everyone expects Apple to switch from Lightning to USB-C when the iPhone 15 releases later this year, a new report suggests it might not be the only USB-powered product. C to appear in 2023. Apple will also release a USB-C version of the second-generation AirPods Pro charging case.
Kuo reports that the new case, which aligns with the model number that was spotted in the iOS 16.4 code, will ship in “2Q23-3Q23”, or between April and September. That means it could arrive alongside the iPhone 15 at the fall event and start shipping in mid-September. Prior to the arrival of the 2nd generation model, Apple previously updated the AirPods Pro case with MagSafe charging in October 2021.
The new case shouldn’t bring any improvements other than the new port. The second-generation AirPods Pro case includes a speaker and a cord loop, and can also be charged with an Apple Watch charger.
Notably, Kuo also says that Apple currently “doesn’t appear to have any plans for USB-C versions” of its other AirPods cases for 2nd and 3rd generation models. This could mean that Apple is planning bigger changes to these models than just a new case. (Apple is rumored to be releasing a low-end AirPods Lite model for $99.) Or it’s possible the USB-C case will just arrive with the next AirPods 3 update.
