Revolutionizing Charging: iPhone 15's USB-C Port Unveiled

Politics, News Sept. 21, 2023, 7:56 a.m.

Apples iPhone 15 and 15 Pro models introduce USB-C ports, enabling cross-device charging and data transfer. The 4.5W limit may result in slower iPhone charging during iPhone-to-iPhone transfers.

Apple's latest iPhone 15 and iPhone 15 Pro models have ushered in a significant change by adopting the USB-C port for charging and data transfer, replacing the familiar Lightning port. This switch opens up a world of versatility, allowing these iPhones to not only charge but also power a wide range of USB-C devices, including other iPhones.

In a recent demonstration by tech enthusiast Marques Brownlee, it was revealed that connecting a Lightning-based iPhone to an iPhone 15 using a USB-C to Lightning cable enables the iPhone 15 to provide power to the older iPhone. What's remarkable is that the iPhone 15 will deliver power to the connected iPhone, even if its own battery level is lower.

Furthermore, if you connect one iPhone 15 to another iPhone 15, these smart devices engage in communication to determine which one has the lower battery charge and initiate power transfer accordingly. This innovative feature means that if you find yourself low on battery and a friend with an iPhone 15 has a fully charged device, you can simply plug your iPhone into your friend's iPhone and rejuvenate your device.

For those with USB-C Android phones, the outcome varies. If the Android device supports USB Power Delivery, and it connects to an iPhone 15 with a lower battery level, the Android phone can provide power. However, if the Android phone lacks USB PD support, the results become unpredictable, leaving you uncertain about which device will act as the charger and which will receive the charge.

The iPhone 15's USB-C port isn't limited to just iPhone-to-iPhone interactions. You can also use it to charge your Apple Watch or AirPods Pro 2 with a USB-C Charging Case using a USB-C to USB-C cable. Moreover, it should be compatible with most other USB-C devices to some extent, enhancing its utility.

However, it's worth noting that when using an iPhone 15 to charge another device, the maximum power output is capped at 4.5W. While this suffices for smaller devices like the Apple Watch, it results in relatively slow charging speeds for iPhones. So, keep your expectations in check when utilizing iPhone-to-iPhone charging functionality.

In summary, the adoption of USB-C in the iPhone 15 and iPhone 15 Pro brings newfound versatility and convenience, allowing for cross-device charging and power sharing, while also expanding compatibility with a wide range of USB-C devices. This transition marks a significant step forward in the world of Apple's mobile technology.