iPhone with USB-C seems to be imminent

The Lightning connector was introduced in 2012 and is found in all Apple mobile devices: iPads, AirPods, peripherals like mice and, of course, iPhones. Compared to the 30-pin connector replaced by Lightning, the technical possibilities were, of course, greater, but the connector is also reversible and, of course, much smaller.

However, there are also disadvantages: the connection is not universal. This means that only Apple can use the link and peripheral manufacturers must pay the license fees. Also, the European Union is pushing for a single universal connection for rechargeable equipment. You only need one charger for all your equipment, saving you a huge mountain of different cables.

The USB-c connection, introduced later, is universal, replacing both the well-known rectangular traditional USB connection and the micro-USB connection (used in other smartphones and tablets at the time). This means that every manufacturer uses the link. Not just for charging.

Technically, USB-c also offers advantages. For example, it replaces HDMI for transmission of the video signal, faster data transfer is possible, and the wattage is high enough to even fast-charge laptops and smartphones.

In short, usb-c is a big step forward compared to Lightning. That’s why connectivity quickly appeared on Macbooks, and now almost all iPads are also equipped with USB-C. Not yet for iPhone and AirPods. This is probably due to the sale of cables and licenses, which are still very profitable.

Still, Apple seems to have to give up on Lightning due to European regulations tackling abuse of power by major tech giants. In this case, by requiring a single universal charger for all mobile devices from 2024.

It has been rumored for years that from that moment on, Apple chose to supply the iPhone without a charging port, so that only wireless charging of the smartphone is possible.

Yet they are often reliable sources that tell a different story. For example, Bloomberg reports that Apple is currently in a testing phase to equip iPhones with universal connectivity. Analyst Kuo also reported on Twitter that Apple is gearing up for the new charger: iPhones, AirPods, Magic Keyboard and mouse and Magsafe chargers will all have USB-C connectivity. An adapter will also be developed so that existing equipment with Lightning connectivity can still be charged and used.

But Apple is in no rush. Both analysts state that Apple plans to switch by the end of 2023; just before the new European rules come into force. Therefore, it looks like the next generation iPhones and AirPods will still be equipped with the outdated Lightning connection.