Iphone 14 | iPhone 14 with USB-C: The end of the Lightning connector? | apple iphone

Apple will have to switch to USB-C as a charging socket in the future. Shortly before the iPhone 14 release, the question arises as to whether the smartphone manufacturer is already taking the step forward. Leakers claim the manufacturer has other plans.

Anyone who owns an Android smartphone has probably been familiar with USB-C as the de facto standard connection for cell phones for some time. iPad Pro users have also switched to this socket. Apple’s iPhones alone (here with a contract) have so far eluded this ecosystem and instead rely on Apple’s self-developed Lightning connector.

In order to do something about the e-waste that accumulates, the EU Parliament has now passed a standard that will come into effect from 2024. Is Apple launching the iPhone 14 or iPhone 14 Pro with USB-C now?

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iPhone: USB-C only with Pro models?

According to the EU regulation, all manufacturers must market cell phones, tablets, cameras and wireless headphones and speakers with a USB-C charging socket. The iPhone 14, which is expected to appear this year, and the iPhone 15, which is also expected in 2023, are probably the last model series with a Lightning connector.

At least if Apple doesn’t make the leap to USB-C beforehand. After all, there are always rumors that Apple would like to switch without new EU guidelines.

These state that Apple could give the Pro models the new charging standard. iPhone 14 Pro and iPhone 14 Max Pro would therefore get a USB-C port, as reported by Tom’s Guide. The standard model iPhone 14 and the new iPhone 14 Max would continue to rely on Lightning.

Other leakers, on the other hand, insist that Apple continues to rely on its own connection. The Pro models of the iPhone 14 should only get a faster version. Instead, Apple would pursue other goals based on the EU regulation.

iPhone without a charging socket: an alternative?

There have been rumors for years that Apple is working towards an iPhone without connections. The headphone jack fell victim to exactly this idea. Next, Apple would ditch the Lightning connector and only offer wireless charging instead. That would be a big change for Apple fans.

Can Apple use it to circumvent EU regulations and outsmart USB-C again? Probably not. Because according to the new regulation, a charging socket must be installed if there is enough space for it. This also bothers the critics of the regulation. Because the EU is practically putting a stop to innovations such as a completely wireless smartphone.

Frequently asked Questions:

Does the iPhone 14 have USB-C?

That’s not certain yet. It is conceivable that Apple will switch to USB-C for the iPhone 14 Pro models.

When is USB-C coming to the iPhone?

Due to the EU directive, Apple must deliver its iPhones with USB-C from 2024. Accordingly, the iPhone 16 would be the first to appear with the new connector.

Why doesn’t Apple want USB-C?

Apple also installs a USB-C port in some products (e.g. the iPad Pro). Why iPhones and other devices continue to rely on Lightning is not officially known.