Home Apple transitions to USB-C, but isn’t happy…

Apple transitions to USB-C, but isn’t happy…

Oct 26 — Now that the European Union is mandating that every phone sold in its member countries use a certain type of connector if they have a physical charger, Apple has no choice but to add a USB-C port to the iPhone.

At present, the law states that “all mobile phones and tablets” will be required to use a USB-C by autumn of 2024. Apple has not announced whether or not the company will include the connector on phones sold outside of the EU.

Apple’s transition

An Apple representative has indicated that the company is displeased by being legally coerced into making the switch. Prior to acknowledging that the company must comply with the law, the representative pointed out that Apple has historically preferred to go its own way, trusting its engineers.

The company would prefer not to adopt hardware standards dictated by lawmakers, citing the examples of Micro USB and hearing aid compliance as situations where Apple has been forced to meet ill-conceived requirements.

At present, Apple’s iPhone relies on the Lightning charger. The iPhone 16 will likely be the first Apple smartphone to sport a USB-C port, although the transition could theoretically start with the iPhone 15, which is to be released next year.

Wireless charging

What didn’t arise in the conversation with the Apple representative: A portless iPhone that leverages wireless charging, which is theoretically permissible, according to the existing EU regulations. For now, it appears that the USB-C is the future port for connecting and charging the iPhone.

The environmentally friendly element

EU lawmakers contend that the new legislation will reduce waste, as consumers will no longer need to purchase a new charger every time that they obtain a new device.

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