Apple is testing iPhones that use the industry-standard USB-C connector, A report per Bloomberg, citing people familiar with the situation.
Since 2012, Apple smartphones have used the company’s proprietary Lightning connector. But lately, the slightly larger USB-C connector has been dominating consumer electronics, including most other Apple products. Consumers, reviewers, and even government regulators have been urging Apple to ditch Lightning in favor of USB-C for the past few years.
This has left Apple in a difficult position, with three possible paths forward, each with some significant downsides.
On the downside, the company can stick with Lightning — meaning customers who’ve been using the iPhone for a while don’t have to buy new adapters, cables, or chargers. Apple’s ecosystem of accessory makers no longer needs to go back to the drawing board to release updated products for the new connection.
On the other hand, Apple could switch to USB-C, which would make the iPhone work better with other devices, including the Mac. However, such a move could cause confusion and chaos among consumers from the accessory makers. This will also loosen Apple’s control over user experience.
The third option would be to use all wireless networks, but wireless connections typically don’t transfer power or data quickly and efficiently.
According to Bloomberg sources, Apple is actively testing a second option — the move to USB-C — in large part because the European Union appears to be moving forward with a law requiring companies to make “mobile phones, tablets, digital cameras, headphones, headsets, etc. gaming consoles” portable Video and Portable Speakers” to standardize USB-C.
The new law isn’t final yet, but its prospects are good so far and it will force Apple to do so. Sources aren’t sure Apple will go ahead with its plan to move to USB-C should the law eventually fall.
However, the USB-C models Apple is currently testing aren’t targeting the 2022 release — this year’s iPhones are said to still use Lightning. However, according to the report, there could be changes as early as 2023.