Apple is testing iPhones that use a standard USB-C port, according to a Bloomberg report citing people with knowledge of the situation.
Since 2012, Apple smartphones have used the company’s proprietary Lightning connector. But lately, the slightly larger USB-C port has come to dominate consumer electronics, including most other Apple products. In recent years, consumers, reviewers, and even government regulators have urged Apple to ditch Lightning in favor of USB-C.
This left Apple in a quandary with three possible paths forward, each with some significant drawbacks.
On the other hand, Apple could switch to USB-C to make the iPhone work better with other gadgets, including Macs. But the move could cause confusion among consumers and chaos among accessory makers. It would also weaken Apple’s control over the user interface.
A third option could be completely wireless, but wireless connections usually don’t transfer power or data as quickly or efficiently.
According to Bloomberg sources, Apple is actively testing the second option – switching to USB-C – in no small part because the European Union appears to be pushing legislation that would require companies that make “mobile phones, tablets, digital cameras, headphones and headsets, portable game consoles and portable speakers”to standardize USB-C.
The new law is not yet final, but so far it has good prospects, and here it will force Apple to play a hand. Sources are unsure if Apple will continue with its plan to move to USB-C if the law is eventually passed.
However, the USB-C models that Apple is testing right now aren’t aiming for a 2022 release—the iPhone will reportedly still use Lightning this year. But the transition could happen as early as 2023, according to the report.