Apple has confirmed a significant change: the iPhone using USB-C.
The European Union has codified new rules requiring most personal devices to use USB-C for charging and data transfer. For the first time, Apple has stated that it would be ordered to comply with such a new regulation, notwithstanding its displeasure.
Apple official Greg Joswiak, the company’s senior vice president of Worldwide Marketing, confirmed the news. At a Wall Street Journal event, Joanna Stern interviews Joswiak and another Apple senior vice president, Craig Federighi.
According to Joswiak, EU legislators and Apple have “been in this little bit of a conflict” over the notion of a standard charging legislation. “We have no option,” Joswiak replied to Stern’s query regarding when USB-C iPhones will be available.
He remarked that, despite the EU’s good intentions, it is a difficult item to regulate. Additionally, he mentions how EU legislators previously attempted to standardize the now-outdated micro-USB port. ‘He did not specify if iPhones and other Apple goods sold outside the EU will also include the USB-C connector.
Greg’s remark reiterated that we will see the first iPhone, and maybe the first AirPods, using USB-C in 2024 and that we will not see a fully wireless charging iPhone for some years.
Joswiak Explained
However, Joswiak stated that Apple would be forced to comply with the new EU standard charger legislation governing USB-C. He stopped short of stating that Apple will transition the iPhone to USB-C, but that’s the only right option here short of a wacky workaround.”For the majority of iPhone users, it’s about charging.”
Reason to change
The European Parliament enacted a bill earlier this month requiring a common charging cable for all cell phones and mobile devices such as laptops or wireless headphones. All mobile phones, tablets, and cameras sold in EU nations must include a USB-C charging connector by 2024, with laptops having until 2026.
According to the EU, the new regulation would save customers money on numerous charging connections to keep their mobile phones charged. Officials also stated that the regulations would help reduce electronic waste caused by outmoded chargers. Additionally, it also prevents consumers from becoming trapped in a certain brand due to an exclusive charging method.
Why is Apple not happy with the decision?
Apple has been a major laggard in the USB-C transition, particularly for the iPhone. The corporation already worries that the restrictions will restrict innovation and harm customers.
According to Greg, the changeover to USB-C will also be an issue for previous iPhone owners. It will generate a lot of e-waste. It is because every iPhone user will need to purchase a new USB-C, and the existing Lightning connector will be useless.
Wireless charging feature by Apple
Apple is a prominent smartphone supplier in Europe, with around 23% of the smartphone market. The Insider recently pointed out that Apple might produce wirelessly charging iPhones, thereby circumventing the USB-C requirement. Still, it appears that Apple is staying with a port for the time being.
