Apple's iPhone 15 to Adopt USB-C Charging: What You Need to Know

Politics, News Sept. 10, 2023, 8:50 a.m.

Apple is reportedly switching the iPhone 15 to USB-C charging, complying with EU regulations. This change, anticipated at the "Wonderlust" event, follows a slight decline in iPhone sales.

Apple is reportedly set to make a significant change in how its upcoming iPhone 15 models will charge. According to reports from CNN Business and other sources, the California-based tech giant is planning to ditch the Lightning port, which has been a staple in iPhones since 2012, in favor of the USB-C format.

This transition to USB-C is expected to apply to all iPhone 15 models, signaling a departure from the familiar Lightning charger. FOX Business has reached out to Apple for an official comment on this development.

Notably, Apple is no stranger to the USB-C port, as it has already incorporated it into some of its other devices, including MacBooks and iPads. The USB-C port has become a common feature in various tech products from different manufacturers.

The European Union's parliament passed a law in late 2022 mandating the inclusion of a USB-C charging port in "all mobile phones, tablets, and cameras sold in the EU." Companies operating in the EU are required to comply with this regulation by the end of 2024. Furthermore, laptops in the EU will also be subject to the USB-C requirement starting in 2026.

These reports of Apple's switch to USB-C for the iPhone 15 come just ahead of the company's "Wonderlust" event scheduled for September 12. While the iPhone 15 has not been officially announced yet, many industry insiders anticipate its unveiling during this event.

iPhones continue to be a significant revenue driver for Apple, accounting for a substantial portion of the company's total net sales each year. In the first three quarters of Apple's fiscal year 2023, iPhone sales generated approximately $156.78 billion in revenue, reflecting a slight decline of about 3.7% compared to the same period in 2022 when it recorded $162.86 billion in net sales. The third quarter of 2023 saw $39.67 billion in net sales from the iPhone segment, representing a 2.4% decrease compared to the previous year.

Apple's Chief Financial Officer, Lucas Maestri, expressed optimism about the iPhone and Services performance, expecting it to accelerate in the fourth quarter following the June quarter.

In addition to the iPhone 15, reports suggest that Apple may also unveil the ninth series of the Apple Watch at the upcoming event.

Reports indicate that production of the Apple iPhone 15 has already commenced in India, underscoring Apple's commitment to diversifying its manufacturing operations.