The upcoming iPhone likely adopts USB-C charging when revealed on September 12
Apple’s phones currently employ a proprietary Lightning connector, unlike competitors such as Samsung. An EU regulation mandates a standardized charging connection by December 2024 to benefit consumers financially and reduce waste. Although most new Apple products, including the latest iPads, already utilize USB-C, the company had opposed the EU regulation. In September 2021, an Apple spokesperson told BBC News that rigid regulations enforcing a single connector type stifle innovation rather than promote it, potentially harming consumers worldwide.
Lightning to USB-C adapters are already accessible from other electronics brands like Amazon, and all iPhones released since the iPhone 8 in 2017 support wireless charging. As the current iPhone 14 appears to be the final Apple device exclusively using the Lightning cable, this may signify the start of the end for the Lightning cable, which is sold for £19 on the Apple store.
It remains uncertain whether this change will apply globally, as Apple is less likely to create a distinct version of the handset solely for the European market.
Anticipated modifications are expected in the upcoming iPhone 15 and iPhone 15 Pro models, set to be revealed at the company’s annual autumn event next week. According to a Bloomberg news report, users will enjoy several advantages from this switch, including the ability to use a single charger for iPads, Macs, and iPhones, along with faster download speeds.
The EU’s common charger mandate encompasses a variety of “small and medium-sized portable electronics,” as defined by the EU, including mobile phones, tablets, e-readers, mice and keyboards, GPS devices, headphones, headsets, earphones, digital cameras, handheld videogame consoles, and portable speakers. All of these devices that rely on wired charging will be required to feature a USB Type-C port, regardless of the manufacturer.
Laptops are also subject to these regulations, but manufacturers have a longer timeframe to implement the necessary changes. As per the EU, this initiative is expected to save consumers “up to €250 million [£213 million] annually on unnecessary charger purchases” and reduce annual waste by 11,000 tonnes.
