USB-C Cables Bring Speed and Compatibility Confusion

USB-C is spreading widely but brings confusion over data transfer speeds, charging capabilities, and cable quality.
Many USB-C cables and ports support only slow USB 2.0 speeds, not fast 10Gbps+ speeds expected with the USB-C connector shape.
Cost-cutting by manufacturers produces cables that can charge but not transfer data quickly.
Most iPhone users won't notice slow USB-C cable data speeds, but Pro users working with large video files will.
The switch to USB-C will be less painful than the 30-pin to Lightning switch since USB-C is already common.

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.

9/10/2023

Apple Event Preview: iPhone 15 with USB-C, Apple Watch Updates, AirPods Overhaul, VR Vision

Apple is expected to unveil the iPhone 15 with a USB-C port and updated wireless charging, as well as the Apple Watch Series 9, at its upcoming event.

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.

9/17/2023

iPhone 15 Pro Maxes Out at 27W Charging, New Models Now Available for Pre-Order

The iPhone 15 and iPhone 15 Pro models can charge at up to 27W peak speeds with a USB-C power adapter, debunking the rumor that they would support up to 35W charging speeds.

9/20/2023

iPhone 15 Charges Android Phone via USB-C But File Transfer Fails in Tests

The iPhone 15 can be connected to an Android phone via USB-C, with the Android phone charging from the iPhone initially and then vice versa, but file transfers between the two phones were unsuccessful.

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.