Finally: USB-C to iPhone because “we have no choice”

It’s happening.

There are a few things that Apple has done that I’ve found completely absurd. One of them is the notch in the newer 14-inch MacBooks. Another is the redesign of the new 24-inch iMac, because what is that? And what were they thinking when creating a Studio Display with a $400 stand upgrade option to raise and lower the display?

Of course, next up is the Lightning cable.

Apple knows that USB-C is best. Of course they do. Apple’s Mac lineup has been primarily USB-C since 2017. The more expensive Pro models charge via MagSafe and have a few USB-C ports. The company’s iPads use USB-C, and have for several years. Apple knows it is better.

USB-C both allows for faster charging and reverse connections. Users can charge their phones by plugging in, but also charge the device itself. USB-C can also do more, such as provide an HDMI connection.

You can actually purchase a USB-C-to-HDMI cable for viewing shows, like I’ve done when I illegally stream the NHL because Sinclair has made it impossible for me to watch my home team.

So why has Apple hung onto its Lightning port for so long?

Well, it is proprietary. Apple can obviously profit more off of the Lightning port, while it can’t with USB-C. Thankfully, the European Union (EU) has stepped in and ruled that Apple must manufacture its iPhones with USB-C to cut down on waste.

Famously, Apple’s iPhones no longer come with a charging brick, but instead arrives with a USB-C-to-Lightning cable. Unfortunately for many, they still have the old USB-A charging bricks, meaning that this USB-C-to-Lightning will not work with it. Another trip to the store is required.

It’s uncertain if the EU’s new regulations on the iPhone would influence Apple’s decision to ditch Lightning altogether. Several of Apple’s products still utilize Lightning, including the Magic Keyboard, Magic Mouse, Magic Trackpad, and all AirPods models’ charging cases.

One other thing to note is Apple’s introduction of MagSafe charging for the iPhone. In theory, we could possibly see an iPhone without any ports by the end of the next five years. Transitions like these would take time and would require more breakthroughs in Bluetooth connectivity.