Apple is tipped to launch a new variant of its cheaper earbuds called AirPods Lite.According to TF International Securities analyst and frequent tipster Ming-Chi Kuo, Apple is working on a new AirPods Pro 2 variant with USB-C charging. Shipments of the new device could start in Q2-Q3 2023, meaning it could be announced sooner rather than later. Nothing much is known about it yet, but it is expected to retain the features and hardware of the original second-gen AirPods, while swapping out the proprietary charging port in favor of USB-C to comply with the recent EU legislation. The move would be a significant step in transitioning Apple's portfolio from Lightning to USB-C in line with industry standards.
AirPods Pro 2 With USB-C Charging
Interestingly, Kuo said that Apple is not planning to launch USB-C versions of the AirPods 2 and AirPods 3, which would suggest that the company isn't likely to keep them in the market for too long. That makes sense, as the EU's USB-C regulation would come into effect in Dec. 2024, by which time, the third-generation AirPods, which launched in Oct. 2021, would be an ancient relic by modern tech standards.
Apple is expected to include USB-C charging ports on its iPhone 15 lineup this year to comply with the EU regulation that requires all mobile gadgets sold in the region to use USB-C by the end of next year. The change would require all Apple accessories, like earphones and other gadgets, to also make the switch to USB-C. The company has already transitioned most of its lineup to USB-C, including iPads and MacBooks, so it only makes sense to take the next step and start switching over to the new charging standard with its other popular products as well.
For people wondering about the hullabaloo over USB-C, there are several benefits to having a common charging interface for all mobile gadgets. The new standard will not only offer substantially faster charging and data transfer speeds than Lightning, but is also expected to be environmentally friendly by reducing e-waste and saving consumers millions of dollars in extra cable and charger purchases. Overall, USB-C is the way forward, and it's encouraging to see Apple making the change, if only belatedly.
Source: Ming-Chi Kuo/Twitter