Apple recently uploaded the first release candidate for iOS 16.4 for developers. The new iOS version also includes references to new AirPods with model code A3048 and a new AirPods charging case with model code A2968. According to well-known Apple analyst Ming Chi-Kuo, these are likely the USB-C version of the AirPods Pro 2, which launched last year with a Lightning port. Sales are scheduled to start between Q2 and Q3 2023, i.e. in a few months.
Kuo has not revealed any further information about the USB-C version of the Apple AirPods Pro 2. And it is still unclear whether the changes to the buds only affect the charging case with USB-C. Other hardware updates may also come.
Apple is also expected to launch the iPhone 15 series with USB-C ports instead of the Lightning connector this year. According to Kuo, however, there are no USB-C plans for the regular AirPods 2 and AirPods 3. This would make the AirPods Pro 2 the first Apple headphones to switch to the USB-C connector under upcoming EU laws.
