New iPhone/iPod Accessories: “Lightning”, “Earpods”, “Loop”!

According to sources, Apple’s new, smaller 9-pin connector will be marketed as “Lightning”, their new earphones will be called Earpods”, and the iPod touch will be getting a new accessory known as the “Loop”. Yeah, we’ve got some last minute rumors for you…

9to5Mac:

According to our sources, Apple’s new, smaller 9-pin dock connector is dubbed “Lightning” internally. As of this evening, we believe that this name will extend to the new connector’s marketing name. The moniker makes sense for two reasons. One: it goes along with the Thunderbolt connector name on the Mac (Thunderbolt and lightning!). Two: perhaps “Lightning” means that the new dock connector will be able to sync via a computer at faster speeds than the current 30-pin connector.

Sources are saying the new connector will sell for around $20, although some reports have said $10.

9to5Mac’s sources also tell them that the rumored new version of Apple’s headphones will also be announced today, the new earphones, that were leaked onto the internet last week, have a unique new design. It’s believed the new accessory will be called “Earpods” and will retail for the same price as the current headphones, $29. Here’s hoping the sound is improved, and it’ll be nice if they stay in my ears, and don’t short out from perspiration while I’m on the treadmill. It’s unknown if the new accessory will come standard with the iPhone and iPod devices.

There are also reports of variations of a new dock adapter to go between Lightning, and the 30-pin connector. The first version is said to clip onto the bottom of the new iOS devices, and the second has a little cable attached for accessories like tight-fitting cases.

And lastly, a report says Apple will ship a new “Loop” accessory in multiple colors for the iPod touch. The new accessory will come in white+black, white+red, white+pink, white+yellow, and white+blue and retail for around $10. Not much is known about this accessory, but speculation is that it might be some kind of “lanyard” accessory to keep you from dropping your iPod.

These accessories are expected to go on sale immediately following today’s event. Make sure to check out our iPhone 5 Event tag and our event coverage page for all the latest!