At Apple's fall conference this year, the second-generation AirPods Pro were updated with a slightly modified USB-C charging interface. Although the appearance remains the same as the second-generation AirPods Pro launched earlier and still uses the Lightning charging interface, the internal chip has also been upgraded in technical specifications, allowing for faster functional response speeds and even 20-bit 48kHz ultra-low latency fidelity compressed audio in conjunction with the Vision Pro virtual vision headset to be launched early next year.
Simply put, the slightly modified second-generation AirPods Pro not only switches to a USB-C charging interface, allowing users to recharge with a single USB-C charging cable, but also uses the same slightly modified built-in chip design to correspond to faster pairing device switching, or activate the conversation perception function, or make it easier to locate through the search function. The rest of the user experience is basically the same as the second-generation AirPods Pro with a Lightning charging interface. Even the charging storage box supports MagSafe magnetic wireless charging, and accessories such as straps can be installed through the strap hole on the side of the charging storage box.
Among them, although the built-in chips of the slightly modified second-generation AirPods Pro still use the U1 and H2 names, the former enhances the precise search function, while the latter adds LE Audio technology that is compatible with the Bluetooth Technology Alliance in Bluetooth 5.2 and later versions.
While built on LE Audio technology, its specialized specifications make it incompatible with standard designs, and Apple has not referred to it as LE Audio in external communications. However, when the slightly modified second-generation AirPods Pro, which feature a USB-C charging port, are paired with the Vision Pro, they enable 20-bit 48kHz ultra-low-latency audio compression. However, in normal use, audio is transmitted using standard Bluetooth specifications.
Therefore, in general use, the slightly modified second-generation AirPods Pro are largely similar to the second-generation AirPods Pro, aside from faster response times, more accurate positioning, and the ability to charge via the more popular USB-C cable. However, if you consider future compatibility with the Vision Pro and features planned for future Apple products, the slightly modified second-generation AirPods Pro may be the better choice.
As for the box part, the slightly modified second-generation AirPods Pro has not changed much, but the image of the USB-C cable is printed on the back of the box as a mark. At the same time, the internal connection cable is naturally changed to USB-C, and a new version of the braided coated cable design is adopted. The rubber coated cable that was prone to hardening and disintegration over time is no longer used.
In addition, the earbuds are available in XS size for users with smaller ear holes. The overall wearing comfort is also quite good, and the overall weight is also quite moderate. It is not easy to cause ear pressure when worn for a long time. At the same time, it is highly compatible with Apple's own products, so it is easier to switch between different Apple devices.
While many true wireless earbuds on the market offer better sound quality and active noise cancellation, as well as features that automatically adjust noise cancellation and volume based on the environment and whether or not someone is speaking, allowing users to easily hear ambient sounds or communicate with others without having to remove their earbuds, Apple's AirPods Pro don't currently offer particularly outstanding performance. However, through deep integration with its own products and an intuitive and simple user experience, they have become a must-have earbud accessory for many Apple product users.
Overall, the slightly modified second-generation AirPods Pro with a USB-C charging interface will not bring much obvious change to the general user experience, but the overall response speed has been improved due to the minor chip modification, becoming smoother, and the speed of switching between different device connections is also much faster.
Even though the full LE Audio application function is still not enabled like other true wireless headphones, and the spatial audio performance is only limited to the Apple Music service experience, it can provide the most stable connection experience when used with iPhone, iPad or Mac.
