Apple has rolled out the iOS 16.4 stable version for developers, which has a new reference to new AirPods with model code A3048 and a new AirPods case bearing model designation A2968. According to analyst Ming Chi-Kuo, it is likely to use the USB-C version of AirPods Pro 2, which is still using a Lightning port until this time, and mass production will be available between 2Q23-3Q23.
Kuo doesn’t tell more details about the AirPods Pro 2’s USB-C version, and it’s unclear if these will just be the AirPods Pro 2 coming in a charging case featuring USB-C or if there will be any other hardware improvements.
Apple is expected to launch the iPhone 15 lineup this year with a USB-C port, and Kuo claims Apple hasn’t a plan to apply the USB-C versions of AirPods 2 and 3; if the rumor happens, it will be the first TWS earphones from Apple to switch from Lightning port to USB-C.