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Apple Is Now Selling the USB-C AirPods Pro 2's Charging Case Separately

If you want to replace your AirPods Pro 2's Lightning-equipped charging case with the new USB-C version, you now can -- for $99.

David Carnoy Executive Editor / Reviews
Executive Editor David Carnoy has been a leading member of CNET's Reviews team since 2000. He covers the gamut of gadgets and is a notable reviewer of mobile accessories and portable audio products, including headphones and speakers. He's also an e-reader and e-publishing expert as well as the author of the novels Knife Music, The Big Exit and Lucidity. All the titles are available as Kindle, iBooks, Kobo e-books and audiobooks.
Expertise Headphones, Bluetooth speakers, mobile accessories, Apple, Sony, Bose, e-readers, Amazon, glasses, ski gear, iPhone cases, gaming accessories, sports tech, portable audio, interviews, audiophile gear, PC speakers Credentials
  • Maggie Award for Best Regularly Featured Web Column/Consumer
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David Carnoy
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The USB-C AirPods Pro 2 case can now be purchased on its own for $99.

 Screenshot by David Carnoy/CNET

When Apple released its slightly updated AirPods Pro 2 with MagSafe Charging Case (USB‑C) earlier this year, it didn't offer the USB-C charging case as a separate accessory. While the earlier AirPods Pro 2 buds -- the ones that shipped with the Lightning case -- charge in the new case, you were required to have purchased the USB-C AirPods Pro 2 to get a replacement case for them. But Apple has now lifted that restriction and is now selling the USB-C charging case for the AirPods Pro 2 to anyone who wants to buy one. It costs $99.

Read more: Best wireless earbuds

See at Apple

I supposed some folks who've bought one of the new iPhone 15 models with USB-C charging might want to get a USB-C charging case for their AirPod Pro 2 because they want to carry around only one cable to charge both their iPhone 15 and AirPods Pro 2. Or maybe you simply lost your Lightning-equipped case and figured you might as well shift to USB-C charging.

It's worth noting that the new USB-C charging case has an IP54 rating, which means it's dust-resistant and splash-proof. The Lightning version of the case doesn't have a water- or dust-resistance rating.

Alas, while you can buy the upgraded AirPods Pro 2 charging case right now, shipping dates have slipped to Dec. 26-29, so it won't make it in time for Christmas. But at least you'll have it before New Year's Day. 

Read our full review of AirPods Pro 2 with MagSafe Charging Case (USB‑C).

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