In a move that he wants to be bold, engineer Ken Pillonel managed to replace the Lightning port of the AirPods Max with a USB-C, offering a practical alternative to users despite the audio limitations.
The upcoming arrival of AirPods Max 2, scheduled for the end of 2024, should mark a turning point with USB-C port integration. This adaptation follows the recent transition of iPhones to this more universal connectivity. This update reflects a port harmonization strategy at Apple, addressing both to European standards and user expectations for more consistent and practical use across their range.
However, past experience with the “tailor-made” USB-C of the iPhone 15 encourages caution regarding the compatibility total AirPods Max 2 with third-party accessories. This approach, while retaining the external appearance of the connector, could limit certain featureshighlighting Apple’s problems in combining characteristic innovation with fluid and unconstrained use within its ecosystem.
Here’s how to add a USB-C port to your Airpods Max
Ken Pillonel, an engineer, discovered that it was possible to eliminate the Lightning connector AirPods Max and replace it with a USB-C port without compromising the aesthetics or functionality of the headset. After designing a custom printed circuit and selected the correct connector, he succeeded in load it via the new port from the first attempt. This modification not only illustrates the ingenuity of Pillonel but also highlights the technical possibility of standardize connections within Apple devices, thus simplifying their use.
Unfortunately, this modification does not allow audio transmission via USB-C due to Apple-specific technical constraints. Pillonel specifies that such functionality would require the integration of a chip coming from a brand adapter, which would make the mod less attractive from a cost-benefit point of view. So before you rush to transform your precious AirPods Max, keep in mind that this modification is mostly a technical feat rather than a real practical advance. Music won’t magically flow through this new port. In short, if your goal is to simplify your cable collection, this modification is for you. Otherwise, it is more of a technical coup than a real revolution.