Beats launches vibrant USB-C and Lightning charging cables.
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Beats has introduced a new addition to its audio product range: Beats Cables, which are specifically USB-C and Lightning charging cables. They are available in four colors: Rapid Red, Nitro Navy, Surge Stone, and Bolt Black. The cables feature a woven fabric exterior intended to prevent fraying and come in two lengths: 1.5 meters (4 feet, 11 inches) and 0.2 meters (8 inches). The longer version can be bought individually or as a two-pack, while the shorter version is currently sold only individually. Interestingly, there is no price difference between the two lengths, with each priced at $19 and the two-pack of the longer cable costing $35. You can purchase them from Apple.com starting today, with in-store availability commencing on April 17.
The new cables are offered in three connector combinations: USB-C to USB-C, USB-A to USB-C, and USB-C to Lightning, though not all colors are available for each. For example, the 1.5-meter USB-C to USB-C variant comes in all four colors, while the USB-C to Lightning variant in the same length does not include the Nitro Navy color. All short 0.2-meter versions are available only in Bolt Black.
Although marketed as charging cables, they are more versatile than those intended solely for power delivery. Here are their features:
- **USB-C to USB-C**: Compatible with Apple and Android for charging, syncing, audio, CarPlay, and data transfer (up to USB 2.0 rates), including lossless audio when used with USB-C compatible Beats headphones (e.g., Beats Studio Pro) and speakers (Beats Pill), or even for the new lossless audio feature on Apple AirPods Max. It also supports fast charging up to 60 watts with compatible devices.
- **USB-A to USB-C**: Used for charging, syncing, CarPlay, and data transfer (up to USB 2.0 rates), with fast charging up to 15 watts on select iPhone and iPad models.
- **USB-C to Lightning**: Designed for iOS/iPadOS devices with Lightning ports for charging, syncing, and CarPlay, featuring fast charging on supported iPhone and iPad models.
One aspect missing is a cable tie to keep the longer version organized when not in use.
If you're curious why Beats has decided to start selling its own cables at this time, it's useful to consider the current landscape of the market for wireless earbuds, headphones, and Bluetooth speakers. Beats does not include a charging cable with the Beat Solo Buds or the recently launched Powerbeats Pro 2. Other companies like JBL have made similar choices, not including charging cables with their JBL Flip 7 or Charge 6 portable Bluetooth speakers.
While some may view it as a cynical move to pass on the cost of this essential accessory to consumers, it could be a positive step for the environment. Many already own compatible charging cables from previous purchases, and wireless charging is becoming the standard for a number of these products. So, why should a cable be included with every new item?
As for the other obvious question: why choose Beats Cables when numerous cheaper alternatives are readily available on Amazon? That decision is left to you.
Simon Cohen is a contributing editor for the Audio/Video section at Digital Trends, where he focuses on the latest in wireless technology.
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Beats launches vibrant USB-C and Lightning charging cables.
The new cables are engineered to resist fraying and can also be utilized for both data and audio purposes.