Regular analyst Ming-Chi Kuo expects Apple to launch second-generation AirPods Pro with USB-C ports in the second or third quarter of this year.
This port change appears to be unique to the AirPods Pro, while the regular 2nd and 3rd gen AirPods retain the original ligntning port.Twitter user @aaronp613 confirmed this by revealing the reference number of the New AirPods model (A3048 ) with a case model (A29680) in iOS 16.4.
Apple introduced 2nd-gen AirPods Pros last September with a Lightning port and support for charging via MagSafe, Qi, and a case with a speaker that produces a location and cord hole for added convenience.
At the moment, there is no further information about what changes the new AirPods Pros will have. More than that, or Apple might add an option to sell a USB-C case separately, it’s possible.
This is all in response to the new EU rules that come into force next year. All new devices sold must use the same standard port.
As for other accessories, Mark Gurman reports that all AirPods and Mac accessories will switch to USB-C by 2024. 4th generation AirPods with USB-C ports are expected to launch in the second half of 2024 or early 2025.
Source https://www.theverge.com/2023/3/26/23656613/airpods-pro-usb-c-launch-rumors-ming-chi-kuo
