Apple recently launched the iOS 16.4 release candidate for developers, which includes references to new AirPods with model code A3048 and a new AirPods case bearing the model designation A2968. According to renowned analyst Ming Chi-Kuo, these are likely the USB-C version of the AirPods Pro 2 launched last year with a Lightning port, and their mass shipments are expected between 2Q23-3Q23.
AirPods Pro 2 was launched last year with Lightning port
Kuo didn’t reveal anything else about the AirPods Pro 2’s USB-C version, and it’s unclear if these will just be the AirPods Pro 2 that come in a charging case with USB-C, or if there will be other hardware changes.
Apple is also expected to launch the iPhone 15 series this year with a USB-C port instead of the Lightning port, and Kuo claims that Apple currently has no plans for USB-C versions of the AirPods 2 and 3, meaning , that AirPods Pro 2 will likely be the first TWS earphones from Apple to switch from Lightning port to USB-C.
