If you’ve ever wanted to plug your phone into your computer, but didn’t have the option, you’re not alone. Apple has long been averse to USB-C, and that may have kept them from providing it on iPhones. The company originally planned to release a thin iPhone 5 in 2010, but that never happened. The technology team needed a new connector and was working with Intel on USB-C. However, the standards took a while to finalize.
Why Apple doesn’t provide USB C ports on its iPhones:
Why does Apple not provide USB C ports on its iPhones? There are several potential reasons. Apple may not want to lose a large portion of its revenue because the new port will be much more popular than the Lightning connector. On the other hand, switching to USB-C will also result in a larger waste stream. According to UNU, 53.6 million tons of e-waste will be produced in the EU by the end of 2019. In addition, only 17.4% of the total EU e-waste will be recycled. The EU is currently considering a new rule requiring the use of USB-C for all of its products. However, Apple is not agreeing with it. The company is not agreeing with the proposed legislation because it would mean losing a large percentage of the revenue generated by Lightning accessories.
Reasons for not providing USB C ports:
Apple hasn’t provided USB C ports on its iPhones yet. The company uses the USB-C standard on its laptops and chargers, but hasn’t switched over yet. This type of connection is the next evolution of Lightning and is reversible, allowing users to easily swap out cables and adapters. It also transfers power and data at high speeds. Apple’s lack of USB-C on its iPhones is a surprising decision, but a change in direction could make iPhones more popular.
Apple’s lack of USB-C ports could be attributed to the company’s vested interests in preventing competitors from making USB-C devices. Its refusal to comply with the EU’s mandate could lead to the iPhone becoming portless. If Apple chooses to do this, it could essentially push the iPhone towards a portless design, relying on proprietary charging methods and charging ports instead. That move makes sense only if Apple’s primary objective is to defend its ecosystem and accessory fees.
Reasons for not providing USB C ports on its iPhones:
Apple’s Lightning port is behind the USB standard in charging and data speed, so the switch to USB-C may improve both of those areas. Apple may also want to provide USB-C for future iPhones, which could improve the speed of file transfers. In addition, the EU is pushing Apple to eliminate the proprietary Lightning port from its devices. After all, consumers don’t want to carry around a bunch of cables and chargers.
In fact, the European Commission has proposed a universal charging connector, but the UK has not yet ratified it. But if the new standard passes the MEP vote in January, Apple may have to provide USB-C support for its iPhones if they want to sell in the European Union. If the change fails, Apple may abandon the USB-C port entirely. However, that strategy makes perfect sense if Apple wants to defend its ecosystem control and accessory fees.
New policy:
The new policy of the European Commission, which wants to cut down on e-waste, may force Apple to make the switch to USB-C for physical charging. Apple, however, says that switching to USB-C would be wasteful. It would require the purchase of new cables and adapters. Even though it would be simpler for consumers, it would increase e-waste. As a result, it’s unlikely that Apple will make the switch to USB-C any time soon.
Author Bio:
Miguel Gabriel is a research-based content writer. He has worked in various industries, including healthcare, technology, and finance. He is currently working as an writer in Research Prospect famous for dissertation writing services and Report writing services. When Miguel is not writing or researching, he enjoys spending time with his family and friends. He also loves traveling and learning about new cultures.