According to a Bloomberg report, Apple is planning to use USB-C on AirPods and Mac accessories in the next several years. The EU has proposed that all new smartphones, tablets, and headphones entering the market in Europe by the end of 2024 be equipped with a USB-C port.
Gurman speculates that, in order to meet future regulations, Apple might include USB-C ports on the next generation of AirPods, AirPods Pro and AirPods by 2024. He also believes that Mac accessories like the Magic Mouse, Magic Keyboard and Magic Trackpad could switch to using USB-C as soon as next year.
Apple will release new iMacs and Mac Pros in 2019, according to Gurman, and because “new Mac debuts generally accompany accessory upgrades,” he said, “it’s a safe bet that those accessories will use USB-C.” He also stated It is expected that Apple will replace the AirPods’ user interface before the EU regulation goes into effect.
As early as this year, Apple has started to test USB-C charging on iPhones. However, we won’t see this feature on products until 2024. Gurman reiterated this news in his latest Power On newsletter, adding that the switch to a USB-C charging port will happen in the iPhone 15 and entry-level iPad. This is expected to be released by the end of 2020.
Even if Apple has to switch to USB-C, Gurman thinks its usage on Apple devices will be short-lived. Gurman feels that eventually, iPhones and iPads will get inductive charging “sometime in the next few years” to get around the legislation.
