The EU is expected to give its formal approval to the laws in the coming months, with a deadline to meet by mid-2024. USB-C in the European single market, Fadaghi said Apple would probably make the change globally if it hadn’t planned to do so yet, which could have some positive effects.
“The EU’s intention is to reduce costs, reduce environmental impact and improve ease of use for the general public, regardless of which platform they use,” he said.
“And Apple is certainly playing catch-up on the connectivity of its handheld devices with third-party peripherals and devices. Android and other devices have been doing this for a long time.”
This is not to say that Apple would completely give up licensing patented connections or charting its own course when it comes to charging.
Rumors about a portless iPhone have been swirling for years and only intensified after 2020, when Apple introduced the iPhone version of MagSafe. This magnet ring on the back of the phone makes wireless charging a more plug-in experience, while providing another way for licensed MFi products; Everything from cases and wallets to Pop Sockets and car mounts have been done with MagSafe.
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A phone that is only charged by wireless induction is definitely possible, and can avoid EU regulation that only applies to devices that are charged by cable. And users would be free to use standard open Qi chargers, instead of Apple’s MagSafe.
But it also means that your device should rely on Bluetooth and Wi-Fi for data transfer, which is a problem for things like recovering broken phones, developing software, or testing device features, at least without a service port. separately.
So with two years to go before the EU deadline, Apple has options. It could speed up a USB-C iPhone and be credited for its wider compatibility, take your time with Lightning and aim for a gradual change, or hold out for as long as possible until you find a way to completely avoid cables. and offer a really wireless iPhone.
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