Apple's decision to change the charging port to USB-C with the iPhone 15 may deter some customers from upgrading due to the inconvenience of changing cables, according to UBS analyst David Vogt.
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.
Apple is expected to unveil four new iPhones, including the high-end iPhone 15 Pro and Pro Max, at its upcoming fall event, which will also feature new Apple Watch models and a shift from Lightning ports to USB-C in response to EU regulations.
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.
Millions of people who will enter the USB-C ecosystem with the iPhone 15 may encounter confusion over its capabilities, as the technology is tainted by uncertainty and lacks certification, resulting in varying data transfer and charging speeds.
Apple is transitioning from Lightning to USB-C for its upcoming iPhone 15 series, a move that was forced upon the company by the EU, despite Apple's previous resistance and claims of generating unnecessary e-waste; however, Apple is expected to downplay this fact during the launch and instead emphasize the benefits of USB-C for cross-compatibility and ecological reasons.
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.
Apple is releasing a new model of its AirPods Pro with a USB-C charging port instead of the Lightning port, in compliance with EU regulation, allowing users to charge their personal electronics with a single cable.
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.
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.
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.
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.