Apple has finally introduced a USB-C connector to iPhone 15 to abide by the European Union’s new law that requires all smartphones to come with USB-C. However, the iPhone 15 is not the only one with this new feature. Apple has announced that it will release a new version of AirPods 2, which will have USB-C charging.
USB-C adoption
At the Wanderlust event on September 12, 2023, Apple said it would start USB-C rollout around AirPods devices with the AirPods Pro 2nd generation. However, it may soon switch all the AirPods charging cases to USB-C connectors.
It’s now clear that AirPods will have a USB-C MagSafe charging case and compatible cables case going forward. However, one thing that’s unclear is whether such a case will be available separately. What it does mean is that if you’re switching from another pair of earbuds with a USB-C cable you can now have a spare.
It is clear Apple is planning to have a single port across all its products though. Hence, it is introducing USB-C to the iPhone 15 range, and AirPods. Of course, its iPad lineup is already familiar with the USB-C port, as Apple introduced it in 2018 with the launch of iPad Pro.
How to get AirPods Pro 2 with USB-C compatibility
Anyone willing to get the new AirPods Pro 2 with USB-C compatibility can purchase the model from the company’s website at $249, from September 22, 2023. Additionally, Apple is also introducing wired EarPods with USB-C connectors. That product will be available for sale at $19 from Apple’s website and elsewhere.
The iOS 17 upgrade will also enhance the performance of AirPods Pro 2. It will add new functionalities like Adaptive Audio and Conversation Awareness. Adaptive Audio will blend Transparency mode and Active Noise Cancellation to adapt according to the background noise in the user’s environment.
On the other hand, Conversation Awareness will auto-reduce the volume when the user starts a conversation with someone. This will ensure that you can hear what the other person is saying.
Does AirPods 3 use USB-C?
AirPods 3 does not use a USB-C connector. Apple has also not announced whether it will release a new version of AirPods 3 with USB-C, so we don’t know if and when it will be available.
Is the Airpods Max USB-C?
No, not for now. The new USB-C connectivity is for the 2nd generation of AirPods Pro, meaning AirPods and AirPods Max do not yet get the new MagSafe charging cases.
