Due to EU laws, the rumor mill anticipates Apple will use USB-C in the iPhone 15, but the company is legally required to do so on December 28, 2024.
On October 4, 2022, the EU passed legislation harmonizing USB-C standards. It calls for adopting USB-C as a global standard for products, including smartphones, tablets, and accessories.
The deadlines for passing this bill in EU member states have been made clear in a document that has been submitted. Member states can enforce the legislation on December 28, 2024, while the deadline for enacting local law amendments is December 28, 2023.
Apple may continue to produce items using Lightning connectors until December 28, 2024, as the law only applies to items released after the enforcement date. Since Apple often releases new iPhones in September, the company may do so with the Lightning-enabled iPhone 15 and 16.
This rule also covers accessories like mice, headphones, and other items. Therefore, many Apple goods are anticipated to switch to USB-C.
Apple is not compelled to make this change, but it appears it has already started. One of the first accessories to convert Lightning to USB-C is the Siri Remote for the Apple TV 4K in 2022.
Apple previously switched the iPad lineup to USB-C, and the 2015 MacBook lineup followed suit. It’s odd that Apple’s recently introduced AirPods 3 and AirPods Pro 2 still use Lightning, although their designs may have been decided long before Apple intended to switch to USB-C.
Apple is reportedly switching to USB-C for the upcoming iPhone 15, which will launch in 2023. Even if it’s unnecessary, Apple should avoid confusion with the impending laws.
Additionally, planning for goods like the iPhone takes years. Apple may have been preparing to switch to USB-C for some time. This regulation has been threatened for years.
