The European Union has set a deadline of December 27, 2024 for device makers to convert data and charging ports to USB-C, meaning Apple will have to ditch the iPhone Lightning connector sometime before then.
While the EU decision has already been taken, the date (by Engadget (opens in a new tab)) is a new development. This means that the iPhone 16 in 2024 can do without USB-C, but the iPhone 17 in 2025 will have to include it.
There is a loophole where Apple could make the iPhone 17 completely portless, so it would rely on Wi-Fi for data transfers and wireless charging to charge the battery. Devices that only charge wirelessly are exempt from the new EU regulations.
clock ticking
We’ve heard rumors that Apple is considering switching the port to USB-C on the iPhone 15, or at least the Pro model of the phone. However, it’s fair to say that at this point we’ve heard the same rumors about several successive iPhones.
For laptop makers, the EU deadline was extended to April 2026. In addition, hardware companies must ensure that no matter what charger is used, it can provide the same charging speed to improve compatibility.
Of course, this only applies to the EU, but it’s not worth it for a company like Apple to run its products with one USB-C and one without USB-C. Now it’s just a question of how long we’ll have to wait to see USB-C iPhones.
Analysis: The road to USB-C
The iPhone has a long way to go with USB-C. It’s something we’ve been asking for since the iPhone 12 in 2020, and rumors of Apple making the switch on its flagship phones have been swirling.
Apple is certainly familiar with the technology: it already uses the standard in its MacBook ports and iPad devices. Even the entry-level iPad switched to USB-C earlier this year, so only the iPhone is still using the Lightning standard.
Apple’s shift really makes sense — at this point, there’s not much reason to stick with its proprietary standards. Apple executives have publicly acknowledged that they will have to comply with any directives enacted by the European Union.
We’d be surprised if Apple waited until the iPhone 17 to introduce USB-C, but the iPhone 15 might be too early. This is all speculation, but maybe the iPhone 16 (expected to arrive in September 2024) will be the first to ship with USB-C.
