Ken Pillonel, known for creating the first iPhone with a USB Type-C port, has also demonstrated an intriguing modification to AirPods Pro: a charging case that can be powered from USB-C rather than Lightning. In a detailed video, he discusses the practical improvements this change brings and explains the steps involved in the process. The demonstration is framed as a step toward reducing electronic waste by extending the life of existing hardware, rather than discarding units whenever a standard charging port becomes obsolete.
During the walkthrough, Pillonel showcases how the AirPods Pro charging case can be opened and the battery accessed for replacement. He emphasizes that replacing the battery is a feasible maintenance operation and frames it as a more sustainable option compared to the standard recommendation to purchase a new case. The emphasis is on longevity and repairability, aligning with broader conversations about making consumer electronics easier to repair and less disposable.
From his perspective, the core achievement lies in removing the Lightning port from the case and soldering a USB-C port in its place. He asserts that this hardware alteration does not compromise the performance of the AirPods Pro and that the earbuds continue to charge reliably after the modification. The modification is presented as a straightforward electrical swap, rather than a complicated overhaul, with testing demonstrating consistent charging behavior and compatibility with the existing AirPods Pro components.
Additionally, the engineer notes that Apple did not design the AirPods Pro case to be opened for routine servicing. He cautions that opening the case can risk damage because it involves the bottom housing, which may lead to a short or a requirement for replacement parts. The overarching message is that while the modification is technically possible, it should be approached with care and an understanding of the potential tradeoffs involved in altering a sealed device.
In a broader context, Pillonel is known for other pioneering hardware work, including an earlier project that demonstrated a Lightning connection on an Android device. This history underscores a pattern of experimental engineering aimed at expanding hardware interoperability and encouraging discussions about repairability, sustainability, and flexibility in consumer electronics purposes, rather than solely chasing new features or brand-specific ecosystems. The video is framed as a case study in practical hardware modification and the ongoing dialogue about extending device lifespans through thoughtful tinkering rather than rapid replacement. (Pillonel, video citation)