After 11 Years, Apple Ditches Lightning for USB-C on iPhone 15

Apple is replacing the Lightning connector with USB-C on the iPhone 15 after 11 years of using Lightning.
Lightning was introduced in 2012 as a successor to the 30-pin connector. It became ubiquitous across Apple's devices.
Apple has been transitioning iPad models to USB-C since 2018. The EU mandated USB-C on new devices in 2022.
The transition allows iPhones to leverage faster charging and data speeds of USB-C.
The move means iPhones can share chargers with Android devices, reducing e-waste from different connectors.

techcrunch.com

Relevant topic timeline:

9/5/2023

Apple's new iPhone is set to require a new charger for the first time in 11 years — and your old Lightning cable won't work

The iPhone 15 will feature a USB-C charging port, replacing the Lightning cord, in response to pressure from the EU, making borrowing chargers from older iPhone models more difficult.

9/7/2023

History lesson: Watch Phil Schiller unveil the Lightning connector ahead of iPhone 15’s switch to USB-C

Apple introduced the Lightning connector with the iPhone 5 in 2012, emphasizing its digital design, improved durability, and reversible nature, marking the end of the longstanding 30-pin connector era, as the iPhone 15 is set to adopt USB-C.

9/8/2023

Apple to Add USB-C to AirPods in 2024, Starting with Pro Model; iPhone 15 Pro Features May Include Titanium Frame and Customizable Button

Apple plans to introduce a USB-C port to its standard AirPods and AirPods Max by 2024, with the AirPods Pro expected to be the first to make the switch during Apple's upcoming event.

9/9/2023

Apple to Switch to USB-C for iPhone 15 and Accessories in 2023, Bringing Major Charging Changes

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.

9/10/2023

Apple Expected to Unveil New Products at Tuesday Event, Including AirPods Pro With USB-C and iPhone 15 Details

Apple is aiming to have all its accessories switched to USB-C by next year, including a new version of the MagSafe Duo and a stackable MagSafe battery pack that can charge multiple devices simultaneously, according to Bloomberg's Mark Gurman.

9/12/2023

Apple Users Brace for Another Round of Dongles and Adapters as Lightning Port Gets Replaced

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.

9/14/2023

Apple Unveils New Fast-Charging USB-C Cables for iPhone, iPad, and Mac

Apple has released new charge cables, including a 60W USB-C Charge Cable and a 240W USB-C Charge Cable, specifically designed for charging iPhone 15 models, iPads, and Macs.