In a significant departure from its usual proprietary charging cables, Apple has announced that its latest iPhone, set to be unveiled on 12 September, will feature a USB-C charge point. This move comes in response to a European Union (EU) law that requires phone manufacturers to adopt a common charging connection by December 2024, with the aim of saving consumers money and reducing electronic waste.
Previously, Apple used its Lightning adaptor for its phones, while competitors like Samsung opted for USB-C. However, with most of its recent products, such as the latest iPads, already utilizing USB-C, Apple’s decision to comply with the EU rule is hardly surprising. It is worth noting that the company had previously voiced its disagreement with the legislation, arguing that such regulation would hinder innovation and negatively impact consumers worldwide. Nonetheless, Apple’s decision to transition to USB-C paves the way for a more seamless charging experience across its devices.
Lightning to USB-C adaptors are already available from other electronics brands, including Amazon, and wireless charging has been supported on iPhones since the iPhone 8, released in 2017. The adoption of USB-C as the standard charging connection will likely bring about the demise of the Lightning cable, which currently retails for £19 on the Apple store.
While it is unclear whether this transition will be a global change to all Apple products, it is unlikely that the tech giant will create a separate version of the iPhone solely for the European market. The upcoming iPhone 15 and iPhone 15 Pro, set to be unveiled next week at Apple’s annual autumn event, are expected to feature the USB-C charge point.
According to reports from Bloomberg, the switch to USB-C will offer several benefits to users. Not only will customers be able to use a single charger for iPads, Macs, and iPhones, but they can also expect faster download speeds. The EU’s common-charger rule applies to a variety of “small and medium-sized portable electronics”, encompassing devices from different manufacturers. Laptops will also be required to comply with the regulations, although manufacturers are given more time to implement the necessary changes.
The EU estimates that the common-charger rule will save consumers up to €250 million (£213 million) annually in unnecessary charger purchases and reduce electronic waste by 11,000 tonnes per year. This move aligns with the EU’s broader aspirations for sustainability and environmental consciousness.
Overall, Apple’s decision to adopt USB-C for its upcoming iPhone demonstrates its willingness to comply with the EU’s regulations and cater to the demands of its European consumers. The transition marks a significant step towards harmonizing charging standards among various manufacturers, resulting in a more convenient and cost-effective experience for users. Furthermore, the reduced reliance on proprietary chargers and increased compatibility across devices will likely contribute to a decrease in electronic waste and a more sustainable future for the technology industry.
