EU’s USB-C Charging Standard: Implications for Apple Devices
The European Union is set to implement a significant policy change beginning January 2025, mandating that USB-C becomes the standard charging port for all consumer electronics. As a direct consequence, Apple will discontinue the sale of its third-generation iPhone SE and the iPhone 14 series in Europe next year. This legislation, approved in 2022, provides manufacturers with a grace period until the end of 2024 to transition to USB-C.
Wider Impact Beyond Smartphones
This regulation does not only affect smartphones; it encompasses a broad range of devices including laptops, digital cameras, headphones, keyboards, mice, and handheld gaming consoles. The broad scope of this law presents challenges for Apple, which has historically relied on its proprietary Lightning port for many of its devices. Notably, India, with its vast smartphone user base, is also implementing a similar USB-C mandate, slated to take effect in March 2025, giving companies only a brief window to adapt.
Current Model Phase-Out and Future Expectations
Currently, the only models available on Apple’s official website featuring the Lightning connector are the iPhone SE (3rd generation) and the iPhone 14 series. As of next year, continuing to sell these models will violate EU law, forcing Apple to discontinue their availability. The decision not to upgrade these devices to USB-C means consumers will need to look toward newer models for compliance.
Apple’s Strategic Moves Ahead
Despite the challenges presented by this policy shift, the impact on Apple and its users may be minimal. The company has been expected to phase out older models anyway, particularly the iPhone SE 3, as it prepares to launch a new iteration, the iPhone SE 4, which is rumored for March 2025. Anticipated features of this upcoming model include a 12MP TrueDepth selfie camera, a 6.1-inch LTPS OLED display, and the powerful A18 chipset, all projected to be priced under $500. This timely upgrade may mitigate any dissatisfaction among users.
Source: iGeneration
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