Engineer Ken Pillonel just couldn’t wait for Apple to release AirPods Max 2 headphones, so he decided to create his own version. Unfortunately, this isn’t a plug-and-play mod, but rather requires one to disassemble the headphones and install a USB-C PCB.
CT scans performed by Jon Bruner on an industrial machine show the inner workings of fake Apple AirPods and reveal why most of them sound so tinny. The main issue appears to be the companies making these knockoffs have never used a pair of AirPods, so they have nothing to base their sound off of, resulting in audio quality that sounds like something from the 1990s.
Modder Ken Pillonel from Switzerland knows that AirPods Pro cases eventually fail, so he wanted to make them easily user repairable. To do this, it took lots of 3D-printing and a few third party aftermarket parts, along with countless hours using modeling software to ensure that everything fit just right.
This limited edition line of Casetify x Evangelion iPhone and AirPods accessories, called ‘PROJECT CSTF: PROTECTION from IMPACT’, includes a case for the latter based on the EVA-01, which lets AirPods Pro owners insert their charging case into the back of the exoskeleton head. Other items include Apple Watch bands, iPad cases, a smartphone stand, and even a MagSafe charging cable.
Engineer Ken Pillonel has created the world’s first USB-C AirPods Pro using a custom PCB and can be installed without milling the case. This also means that you can replace the internal battery should it not hold charge or is damaged.
Photo credit: Zarruk Taiseer
Would it be possible to combine Apple AirPods Pro and iPhone into a single device? Most definitely if it looks anything like the iPro by industrial designer Zarruk Taiseer. Put simply, the AirPods Pro case itself would have a touchscreen on the front and a triple rear camera system in the rear.
Apple AirPods 2 with Lightning Charging Case are still a great alternative to the Pro if you don’t need ANC, and you can get one for $79 shipped, today only, originally $159. Unlike the first-gen model, this one has an H1 chip that delivers up to 50% more talk time and switching between devices is two times faster. Product page.
Apple AirPods Pro 2 are comparable to true wireless earbuds that cost twice as much, and you can get a pair for $199.99 shipped ahead of Black Friday, today only, originally $249. In addition to Active Noise Cancellation, you also get touch control for media playback and volume adjustments directly from the stem. Product page.
We may have to wait a bit longer for USB-C AirPods, but the second-generation AirPods Pro are now official. Aside from Apple’s new H2 chip, AirPods Pro includes improved Active Noise Cancellation and Transparency modes, while also a more immersive Personalized Spatial Audio feature. Touch control has been expanded for media playback and volume adjustments directly from the stem.
Photo credit: 52Audio
Apple AirPods Pro 2 may be introduced at the Fall event, alongside the iPhone 14, and some of the rumored new features are quite exciting to say the least. According to a report from 52Audio, this second-generation AirPods Pro comes equipped with an upgraded H1 chip, heart rate detection, USB-C, and even the capability of doubling as a hearing aid.