Apple’s upcoming iPhone 15 series is set to launch in just two weeks, and according to reports, Apple retail employees are being trained to inform customers about the switch to USB-C charging. The new devices will no longer be compatible with existing Lightning chargers that customers may already own.
When customers purchase a new iPhone 15 model, Apple staff will caution them that while a USB-C to USB-C cable is included in the box, a USB-C charger is not. This means that customers will need to purchase Apple’s USB-C power adapters and additional Apple-certified USB-C cables to meet their charging needs in multiple locations.
Apple has been using its proprietary Lightning port on iPhone models for over a decade. However, in recent years, the company has transitioned its Macs and iPads to the more common USB-C charging standard. Pressure to comply with new regulations in Europe reportedly pushed Apple to make the switch for iPhones.
Despite its initial reluctance, Apple stands to profit immensely from the switch to USB-C. Analyst Ming-Chi Kuo predicts significant growth in shipments of Apple’s 20W USB-C charger, with a 30-40% year-on-year increase in 2023. This is due to the strong replacement demand from customers needing USB-C chargers for their new iPhones.
Kuo also believes that the iPhone 15 series will support faster charging speeds when used with MFi-certified USB-C chargers, including Apple’s own 20W Power Adapter. Leaker ShrimpApplePro added that only Apple-certified USB-C accessories will be officially supported by the iPhone 15 models through the Apple Made for iPhone (MFi) program.
Apple’s supplier, Foxconn, is reportedly producing MFi-certified accessories like EarPods and cables with USB-C connectors. Additionally, Apple is expected to release a new AirPods Pro USB-C charging case.
It is rumored that some iPhone 15 models will support charging speeds up to 35W, allowing for quicker charging with a compatible power adapter. It is unclear if this feature will be available for all iPhone 15 models or exclusive to the higher-end Pro models.
Currently, the iPhone 14 models can charge at a maximum of around 27W, with the Pro models slightly faster. The increase to 35W would result in even faster charging times. If the iPhone 15 models do support up to 35W charging, Apple may recommend its 30W MacBook Air charger or its 35W Dual USB-C charger for maximum speed.
Overall, Apple stands to generate significant revenue from the sales of USB-C accessories as it renders Lightning accessories obsolete. This change will impact millions of Apple customers worldwide, who will likely need to purchase new chargers and cables alongside their new iPhone 15 models.
Apple will officially unveil the iPhone 15 series at an event scheduled for Tuesday, September 12, at 10 a.m. Pacific Time. The event will be live-streamed on YouTube, Apple’s website, and through the Apple Events app for Apple TV.