Apple users worldwide are preparing for a significant shift as the company unveils the iPhone 15 next week. Due to a European Union directive, Apple is compelled to abandon its proprietary Lightning connectors in favor of the universal USB-C for both charging and data transfers, according to several tech reports.
This transition, along with other updates to the iPhone lineup, is anticipated to be formally announced on September 12th. The EU has set a mandate for all manufacturers to adopt a standardized charging interface by 2024. This rule, implemented in 2022, encompasses various devices including mobile phones, tablets, e-readers, peripherals like mice and keyboards, GPS units, headphones, digital cameras, handheld gaming consoles, and portable speakers.
The Lightning connection was initially introduced in 2012. Johan Alexander, an app developer, noted that while users might initially find the switch to USB-C slightly inconvenient, widespread adoption of this new standard will ultimately benefit them.
USB-C has already become the standard charger for non-Apple devices. The current iPhone 14 is anticipated to be the final Apple device reliant solely on Lightning cables.
Apple had contested this shift, contending that it could lead to an environmental hazard with billions of outdated cables potentially ending up in landfills.
Additional modifications expected (or speculated) to be introduced with the iPhone 15 release on September 12th include new color selections, a titanium casing option for the Pro model, and enhanced displays.