Topics

Posted 9/18/2023, 5:49:00 PM

iPhone 15 Ditches Lightning for USB-C, Bringing Speed Boost But Compatibility Headaches for Many Users

USB-C is more flexible and powerful than Lightning, but brings compatibility headaches many iPhone users haven't dealt with before.
The iPhone 15 comes with a USB-C cable limited to slow USB 2.0 data speeds, while the Pro has a faster USB 3 cable.
There are 3 separate USB standards - the connector, data rates, and power delivery - which cause confusion about cable and device capabilities.
Cheaper cables often cut corners, only supporting older, slower USB versions to lower costs. Watch for certification marks and product info.
For most users charging will work fine, but power users should buy quality cables, especially for the Pro models that support fast transfer speeds.

cnet.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.

9/6/2023

USB-C iPhone 15 May Tempt Some Android Owners to Switch, Survey Suggests

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.

9/7/2023

Why I Want an iPhone 15 (Even Though I Haven't Seen It Yet)

The author, despite not frequently upgrading their personal tech products, is excited about the rumored features of the iPhone 15, including the potential switch to a USB-C port, the inclusion of the Dynamic Island, and the expected processor upgrades.

9/13/2023

iPhone 15 Gets USB-C But No Major Battery or Charging Upgrades

The iPhone 15 series does not bring significant improvements in battery life or charging speed, although it does introduce a USB-C port instead of the Lightning connector, which is a major convenience.

9/15/2023

Apple's Switch to USB-C Ports Will Unify Charging for iPhone and Android Users, But Frustrate Some Loyalists

The switch to USB-C in the iPhone 15 will address the problem of compatibility with Android accessories, despite some existing iPhone owners expressing dissatisfaction with the change, ultimately providing benefits for Android users.

9/16/2023

iPhone 15's New USB-C Port Enables Faster Charging, More Power for Accessories

The iPhone 15 and iPhone 15 Pro can now charge from 0 to 100% in under two hours with a USB-C cable, and the USB-C port allows for significantly more power output to accessories, expanding the possibilities for iPhone accessories.

9/20/2023

iPhone 15's USB-C allows cross-device charging with Android phones

Android smartphones have had the ability to charge other devices using a USB-C cable, and now with the iPhone 15 series adopting USB-C, Android phones and iPhones can finally share power with one another.

9/21/2023

iPhone 15 to Switch to USB-C Charging Due to EU Regulation

Apple will release the iPhone 15 with a faster processor and better camera, but the most exciting feature is its switch from the proprietary lightning connector to USB-C due to European Union regulations.

9/22/2023

iPhone 15's USB-C Port Enables Faster Wired Internet With Ethernet Adapters

The newly launched iPhone 15 series supports USB-C to Ethernet adapters, allowing for wired internet connections with faster download speeds than Wi-Fi.

10/2/2023

iPhone 15 Pro Gets Faster USB-C, But Full Speed Requires USB 3 Cable

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.

10/10/2023

iPhone 15 Brings Major Upgrades: USB-C Charging, 48MP Camera, Satellite SOS, Powerful Chip

The iPhone 15 is praised for its impressive camera, sleek design, and the transition to a USB-C charger, making it one of the best smartphones available and an appealing choice for Android users wanting to switch to iOS.

10/12/2023

Apple Switches to USB-C on New iPhone 15 Models, Bringing Faster Charging and Connectivity

Apple has replaced the Lightning port on the iPhone 15 and iPhone 15 Plus with USB-C, allowing for easier connectivity with accessories and peripherals, and the Pro models support USB-3 speeds for faster data transfer.