APPLE will be forced to use a new charging port on iPhones by the end of 2024.
EU lawmakers have finally set a deadline for when USB-C will have to be the universal cable for new smartphones.
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And although the decision is only meant to affect EU countries, it’s highly likely device makers like Apple will apply the changes globally to avoid the hassle of making two different models.
In the latest step, the new USB-C law has been published, making it formally binding.
They’ll enter into force in 20 days, when member states will have up to 24 months to make it a national law.
This means all new smartphones and tablets will have to use USB-C by December 28th, 2024.
Most new devices already use USB-C, but the iPhone was the big glaring exception, having long used its own lightning port.
Apple has already indicated that it will comply with the ruling, despite warning that the massive change could hamper innovation.
Plans are already under way to extend the measures to even more devices like laptops by spring 2026.
People who already own an iPhone or other smartphone that doesn’t use USB-C won’t be forced to get rid of their lightning cables of course.
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You’ll be able to continue using them for as long as your iPhone works.
But the next one you buy will probably have USB-C instead.
Analysts expect Apple to switch the iPhone to USB-C as soon as 2023, with the rumoured iPhone 15.
However Apple has not confirmed when USB-C will arrive on the iPhone.
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This post first appeared on Thesun.co.uk
