Student Ken Pillonel has once again pushed the boundaries of gadget hacking by converting AirPods to charge via USB-C. This follow-up project mirrors his earlier iPhone X modification, where a USB-C port replaced the Lightning connector, but now it focuses on the popular wireless earphones. The documentation reveals the full workflow, including diagrams, videos, and step-by-step notes showing how the upgrade was achieved from start to finish.
Central to the modification is the use of a 3D printer. The process begins with carefully opening the AirPods charging case to access the internal layout. The original shell is then redesigned to accommodate the new circuit board and the USB-C port. Precision cutting and reassembly are required to ensure that the new components fit snugly without compromising the case integrity or the charging contacts. The result is a charging case that can power any USB-C cable, expanding compatibility beyond the original Apple ecosystem.
The creator provides the full hardware changes along with the software or firmware considerations where applicable. All materials and designs are made available on a public repository, enabling other enthusiasts to study, replicate, or modify the conversion. In addition to sharing the raw files, ready-made kits are offered or teased for future release, suggesting a path toward broader availability for those who want to undertake the project without sourcing individual parts themselves.
The broader implication is clear: as mobile devices evolve, USB-C could become a standard across more product lines, driven by regulatory or market forces in various regions. This specific AirPods modification demonstrates how existing consumer electronics can be adapted to newer charging standards, highlighting a broader trend toward universal connectors that reduce cable clutter and improve interoperability. While such projects sit on the fringe of mainstream hardware customization, they illustrate the practical feasibility of upgrading components inside compact devices with careful planning and the right tools. The conversation around USB-C adoption in popular devices continues to gain momentum as makers push for open standards and user empowerment. [citation]
It is possible that new iPhone and AirPods models will adopt standard USB-C connectors in the coming years, reflecting ongoing moves toward universal charging interfaces across devices and regions. The trend aligns with regulatory push in multiple markets that seeks to simplify charging for consumers and reduce e-waste. As these shifts unfold, the maker community will likely respond with more innovative approaches to integrating USB-C into existing hardware, expanding the possibilities for personalization and compatibility across product families.