Apple may be about to change the iPhone’s charging port. According to a report by Bloomberg, the company is testing new iPhones and USB-C adapters, which are already used by MacBook and iPad, not to mention many devices outside Apple’s ecosystem. We have contacted Apple for confirmation and have not yet received a response.
Bloomberg sources said the tested adapter could “allow future iPhones to work with accessories designed for the current Lightning connector.” This could mean a Lightning to USB-C adapter for things like credit card scanners or flash drives that plug into existing iPhones. The Bloomberg report notes that if Apple “continues to change, it will not happen until 2023 at the earliest.”
Although Apple’s decisions to change ports have been the subject of much joke in popular culture, the move to USB-C may actually be welcome. The more widely available standard is only slightly larger than Lightning, but can deliver power and data faster. The change could also make life a lot easier for those who already use USB-C to charge most of their devices and still have to carry a Lightning cable with them just for their iPhones.
Apple’s motivation for potential change may not be entirely altruistic. The EU has been pushing for a universal standard for charging phones for years and recently proposed legislation that would make USB-C a mandatory port for all phones. Testing the iPhone’s USB-C would simply recognize Apple’s inscriptions on the wall. However, if this happens, it would not only be convenient for most people who already use USB-C to a large extent, but it could also mean less e-waste in the future.
All products recommended by Engadget are selected by our editorial team, regardless of our parent company. Some of our stories involve partnerships. If you buy something through one of these links, we can earn a partner commission.
Add Comment