The iPhone might finally be ditching the Lightning port for USB-C in 2023
Since 2012, the iPhone has been carrying Apple's proprietary Lightning port, but this may all change in 2023. The tech giant is reportedly working on an iPhone with a USB-C port, just like most modern Android devices.
According to Bloomberg, Apple is not just experimenting with the new port, it's also working on an adapter so accessories designed for the Lightning port will still be usable.
Apple analyst Ming-Chi Kuo also predicted that Apple could eventually switch ports, especially when it releases the iPhone 15. This smartphone lineup would likely be launched in September 2023.
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My latest survey indicates that 2H23 new iPhone will abandon Lightning port and switch to USB-C port. USB-C could improve iPhone's transfer and charging speed in hardware designs, but the final spec details still depend on iOS support.— 郭明錤 (Ming-Chi Kuo) (@mingchikuo) May 11, 2022
One of the biggest drivers for the possible change is the European Union's ruling which requires electronics companies to adopt USB-C as the common wired connection standard.
Apple's other devices, like the recent iPad and MacBook, already carry USB-C ports. Devices like the iPhone, AirPods, MagSafe battery pack, and the entry-level iPad still use Lightning ports.
A shift from the Lightning port to USB-C could mean faster charging and file transfers for iPhones. This could also be less of a headache for consumers as they can use the same USB-C cable for their laptops, powerbanks, and smartphones.