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Apple Ditches Lightning for USB-C with New iPhones, Mandated by EU

  • Apple is switching iPhones from Lightning to USB-C ports starting with iPhone 15 models this year. This will require new cables and accessories.

  • The Lightning port had a good 10-year run, but the EU mandated the change to USB-C. Apple may eventually go completely wireless.

  • Buy new USB-C cables and chargers. Your old Lightning cables won't directly work. A dongle may help transition some accessories.

  • Cars with USB-A ports will need a USB-C cable or dongle for wired CarPlay.

  • Don't panic. The change will take time. Pass Lightning cables to others still using older iPhones.

zdnet.com
Relevant topic timeline:
The expected move to USB-C on the iPhone 15 may lead a significant number of Android users to switch to iPhones, according to a survey conducted by SellCell.
The upcoming iPhone 15 series is rumored to feature a switch from Lightning to USB-C ports, a design with skinnier bezels and a Dynamic Island cutout, easier repairability, upgraded ultra wideband for integration with Apple's AR headset, 15-watt wireless charging, a periscope-style telephoto lens, solid-state buttons for the Pro models, increased RAM for the Pro models, and potential price increases, with the iPhone 15 Pro Max possibly receiving a $100 to $200 price hike.
Apple plans to refresh its accessories with USB-C ports, including AirPods and Mac accessories, following the transition away from Lightning on the iPhone 15 lineup.
Apple is known for frequently changing the connectors and cables on its devices, requiring users to constantly purchase new adapters and accessories, with the company's adoption of USB-C for iPhones being the latest example.
Apple has decided to replace the Lightning connector with USB-C after 11 years, following the global trend towards standardizing charging ports and reducing electronic waste.
The iPhone 15 series includes four models - iPhone 15, iPhone 15 Plus, iPhone 15 Pro, and iPhone 15 Pro Max - with varying colors, design, camera features, and processors, while all models now use USB-C for charging.
The iPhone 15 lineup, featuring design changes and a switch to USB-C charging, has been met with strong pre-orders and long lines at stores around the world, suggesting that many people are eager to upgrade their devices.
Apple iPhone 15 Pro users are experiencing charging issues with USB-C, as the phone ends up charging connected devices instead of being charged itself, highlighting the inconsistencies in compliance with USB-C standards among manufacturers.
The iPhone 15 Pro models unlock USB 3 speeds with USB C, and any USB 3 cable, including the $15 one from Amazon, performs the same as the $70 Apple Thunderbolt 4 cable.
The iPhone 15 is a compelling upgrade over the iPhone 14 Pro, offering better in-hand feel, improved photo quality, and future-proof features like USB-C.