Apple has begun mass production of EarPods with USB-C ahead of the upcoming iPhone 15 announcement
Given that all four iPhone 15 models are to receive a USB-C port instead of Lightning, some Apple accessories will also switch to USB-C. In particular, it concerns the wired EarPods. It is reported that mass production of EarPods with USB-C has already started. Foxconn is engaged in their production.
Apple currently offers EarPods with Lightning and a 3.5 mm connector. Both versions cost $19. The popularity of this model has declined significantly since the announcement of AirPods in 2016 and the disappearance of the 3.5 mm audio jack from the iPhone. However, they remain a more affordable alternative, so it makes sense that Apple would offer EarPods with USB-C for newer generations of iPhones.
The announcement of the new iPhone 15 line is traditionally expected in September.