So I see Apple’s flagship desktop mouse has finally gotten a long overdue update… to USB-C
— Marques Brownlee (@MKBHD) October 28, 2024
Apple has announced that its high-end Mac Pro desktop computer now has USB-C versions of the Magic Mouse and Magic Keyboard accessories. The package also includes a USB-C to USB-C charging cable, replacing the previous USB-C to Lightning cable. This update marks a shift for the Mac Pro accessories towards the more widely-used USB-C standard.
However, there are no internal hardware updates to the Mac Pro itself. It continues to be powered by the M2 Ultra chip, first introduced in June 2023. The Mac Pro’s pricing starts at $5,999 in the United States.
Who wants to buy my Lightning Magic Mouse and keyboard?! Keyboard includes a generous helping of everything bagel seeds lodged between the keys—otherwise in excellent condition!https://t.co/dGaDKAk5p3
— Joanna Stern (@JoannaStern) October 28, 2024
turns out Apple does in fact have a new Magic Keyboard with USB-C and no num pad! https://t.co/GXOsccJzvS
— Parker Ortolani (@ParkerOrtolani) October 28, 2024
The new USB-C Magic Mouse and Magic Keyboard accessories are also available separately in white and black options. This announcement aligns with Apple’s ongoing trend of adopting USB-C across its device lineup, providing users with a more unified and flexible charging solution.
Apple shifts Mac Pro accessories
Despite switching to USB-C, Apple has again placed the Magic Mouse’s charging port at the bottom of the device. This design decision has puzzled tech enthusiasts since its introduction nearly a decade ago. Critics argue that more ergonomic and practical solutions have been proposed for the charging issue, but Apple has not adopted such modifications.
The Magic Keyboard, Magic Mouse, and Magic Trackpad now ship with USB-C charging and connection ports, replacing the Lightning ports they have featured for nearly a decade. These accessories now come with USB-C ports so that users can charge all their favorite devices with just a single cable,” Apple announced in conjunction with its new M4-powered iMac. The shift from Apple’s proprietary Lightning connector to USB-C was anticipated, as Apple had gradually implemented USB-C on other devices, such as its iPad Pro and MacBooks.
The recent switch leaves the iPhone SE and iPhone 14 as the remaining Apple products still using the Lightning port. The transition to USB-C has been slow and uneven, but it is reaching a point where a collection of USB-C cables and charging bricks can power most computing devices. This update is significant for those who prefer a more streamlined setup with just one cable type on their desk.
