The EU has decided to make the USB-C a standard for consumer electronics. This decision is far-reaching, as it will affect all iPhone sales in Europe from the year 2024. One of the largest brands to be hit by this action is Apple, as this will mean that they could drop the use of the lightning port.
This action by the EU will help reduce the number of waste products from chargers in their region. With a common or standard charger, people living in the region will be able to power all devices by using one cable. Only small electronics like smartwatches that can’t use a USB-C port will be free from this sweeping directive from the EU.
Apple being the only flagship smartphone manufacturer not using the Type-C port will need to adjust its standards. But, does this mean that we will be waving goodbye to Apple’s beloved lightning ports? Maybe not. This requirement by the EU will only affect iPhones and Apple gadgets sold in Europe.
Consider the iPhone 14 series that retails without a physical SIM tray in America. In other regions, all four devices in this series come with a physical SIM tray. So, it is not far from Apple to launch the iPhone 15 series with USB-C charging ports in Europe only, whilst sticking to the lightning port in other regions.
Analysts familiar with this matter say that “Apple is testing a version of the iPhone that has a USB-C port.” This version of the iPhone will enter mass production by 2024 with the launch of the iPhone 15 series. Other Apple accessories making use of the lightning port will switch over to USB-C after the iPhone.
