In a highly anticipated move, Apple on Tuesday unveiled its latest iPhone 15 lineup at its annual September showcase, featuring a major design change: replacing the Lightning port with a USB-C charging port. . This marks the end of an 11-year run for Lightning Port.
While the transition to USB-C brings the latest iPhones compatible with a wide range of devices that already use the universal standard, it also means that older Lightning cables can be used with newer iPhones without the use of adapters. Will not work. However, many users likely have USB-C cables, which conform to the universal USB-C concept.
What is USB-C and how does it compare to Lightning?
USB-C, which was introduced several years ago, represents the latest version of the original USB-A standard. One of its main advantages is the 24-pin compatible design, which allows users to plug it in without worrying about familiarity. This design similarity with Lightning means an unchanged user experience for iPhone owners.
USB-C can offer faster transfer rates, depending on the generation of USB specifications it follows. The current generation USB 3.2 specification supports transfer speeds of up to 20 gigabits per second, while the upcoming USB 4 specification can increase this to 120 gigabits per second. In contrast, Lightning hardware limits transfer speeds to 480 megabits per second.
However, the USB-C port on the iPhone 15 and iPhone 15 Plus only supports USB 2 speeds, maintaining a transfer rate of 480 megabits per second, the same as previous Lightning iPhones. To access faster USB 3-level transfer rates, users will need to opt for the iPhone 15 Pro or Pro Max, which includes a USB-C port that supports speeds of up to 10 gigabits per second. does.
Charging with USB-C and its implications
Charging speeds with the new USB-C port are expected to vary depending on the power adapter used. Apple claims that a 20W USB-C power adapter (sold separately) can charge the iPhone 15 from zero to 50% in 30 minutes, the same as the previous Lightning-powered iPhone 14. improvement.
Additional benefits of USB-C adoption
One of the primary benefits of adopting USB-C is improved interoperability. iPhone users can now use the same cables for charging and data transfer as laptops and other devices, simplifying the tech ecosystem. This change extends to the new AirPods Pro 2, which also adopts USB-C charging.
The transition to USB-C is consistent with sustainability goals, reducing the amount of cables and electronic waste generated. Consumers are encouraged to repurpose or recycle their old Lightning accessories through organizations such as Call2Recycle, Earth911, Greener Gadgets, or retailers such as Best Buy.
The move to USB-C represents an important step in Apple’s ongoing efforts to increase user convenience, align with industry standards, and contribute to a more sustainable tech future.
Stay tuned for more testing on the performance of the new USB-C ports as Apple enthusiasts eagerly await the arrival of the iPhone 15 lineup.
