by Tim Hardwick
Apple on Tuesday made second-generation AirPods Pro with a USB-C charging case available to order, but unlike its move to wireless charging cases, the company isn't offering the USB-C case as a standalone purchase.
Apple's decision not to offer the USB-C case as a separate purchase is likely a marketing one related to the fact that the updated second-generation AirPods Pro feature improved IP54-rated dust resistance, and will support up to 4 hours of lossless audio with ultra-low latency when connected to the Apple Vision Pro headset launching in early 2024.
Similarly odd (but unsurprising?) that if you want a USB-C charging case you need a whole new $249 pair. Apple isn't selling a standalone case like they did with the move to wireless charging cases. https://t.co/XXANobWF4M https://t.co/7aNV0ysjrw— Mark Gurman (@markgurman) September 13, 2023
Regardless, the lack of an option to purchase the USB-C case separately is likely to frustrate customers who already own second-generation AirPods Pro with a Lightning port and plan to upgrade to an iPhone 15, which features a USB-C port for the first time. Those wanting to charge all their devices with one cable will need to buy the new USB-C to Lightning adapter ($29), while those who want to future-proof for Apple Vision Pro compatibility will have to buy a completely new pair of AirPods Pro costing $249.
Related Roundups: Apple Vision Pro, AirPods Pro
Tags: September 2023 Apple Event, USB-C
Buyer's Guide: Vision Pro (Buy Now), AirPods Pro (Buy Now)
Related Forums: Apple Vision Pro, AirPods
[ 168 comments ]
Top Rated Comments
abatabia
26 weeks ago
This is a bad move. Leaves a bad taste in my mouth. No reason for this other than Apple being Apple.
Score: 29 Votes (Like | Disagree)
Davelfc
26 weeks ago
Mother Nature wont be happy, they’re about as green as my red shirt.
Score: 27 Votes (Like | Disagree)
hagar
26 weeks ago
For this exact reason I was holding off to purchase the AirPods Pro 2. It would not be that hard for Apple to sell an updated USB-C case for 29$ together with an enclosed apology letter they should have migrated to USB-C 5+ years ago.
Score: 22 Votes (Like | Disagree)
O.N.Y.X
26 weeks ago
Looks like Apple got really pi$$ed off by their forced move to make devices USB-C compatible and now want to relay part of their anger to the customers…
Score: 17 Votes (Like | Disagree)
PixelsMaster
26 weeks ago
Apple forgot to mention this change in their 2030 goal event.
Score: 14 Votes (Like | Disagree)
randfee2
26 weeks ago
What a ****** move. Care about preventing waste and the environment at all my a$ s!!!!
When I see stuff like this I disgust myself for actually having liked and still like their products.
Score: 13 Votes (Like | Disagree)
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