In the latest move from the tech giant, Apple is introducing USB-C charging for the new iPhone 15.
Previously, the company stuck to its own “Lightening” port chargers, insisting that buyers use a different charger than every other smartphone.
The change comes after the EU passed a law requiring all consumer tech companies to use USB-C chargers by December next year.
However, don’t panic yet: if you buy the iPhone 15, you will receive a USB-C cable with the product in the box.
For those who only use Apple products and don’t plan to upgrade, this means the cables will need to be replaced. Fortunately, USB-C is very popular and you may already have one at home.
Pictured: A USB-C charger, which will replace Apple’s “Lightening” port chargers
What is a USB-C cable?
A USB-C cable is a popular connector type used on many different electronic devices.
It stands for Universal Serial Bus Type-C and is widely used for charging and transferring data.
As the name suggests, it is becoming the standard connector for moving data and powering a wide range of devices.
The cable is already commonly used for Android phones, as well as many other Apple products, including its latest iPad and MacBook models.
From now on, we will find it on the new iPhone 15s unveiled on September 12.
Apple has previously pushed back against calls for a move to USB-C, suggesting that forcing users away from the Lightning cable would instead create an “unprecedented volume” of e-waste.
However, tech fans are very pleased with the news, with one person tweeting “And another joking: “Android users will finally be freed from the embarrassment of asking for a charger and receiving blank stares from everyone the world in the room because they are iPhone users. ‘.
As it is compatible with many devices, this should mean users will have fewer messy cables.
A USB-C charger (RIGHT) and an Apple “Lightening” charger (LEFT)
If you buy the iPhone 15 (pictured), you will receive a USB-C cable with the product in the box
Its tip is curved into an oval shape rather than rectangular like some other cables
How do you know if you have one at home?
It’s likely that you already have a USB-C cable at home due to its popularity.
Whether it’s in an old box somewhere or used daily for another gadget, it’s pretty common for you to have one.
USB-C is much smaller than USB-A, the most popular type.
A big clue that you may have USB-C is that both ends are the same, so no matter which side you plug in, it’s completely reversible and works the same.
It has bi-directional power capabilities allowing power or data to flow in both directions.
The connector is much larger and wider than Apple’s “Lightening” cable that users will be used to.
Its tip is curved into an oval shape rather than rectangular like some other cables.
If you’re not sure, google the bundled product and it should tell you whether it’s a USB-C port or not.
What devices use a USB-C cable?
Many devices come with USB-C ports, from digital cameras to external hard drives, speakers and even some TVs, as well as most smartphones, laptops and tablets.
There are already USB-C ports on every MacBook Apple sells, as well as other devices like the iPad Pro and iPad Air.
So if you already own Apple products, you probably have a USB-C port somewhere.
Virtually all Android phones use cables and have for years, including Google and Samsung devices.
Most major laptops and computers also have USB-C ports, such as those made by Dell, ASUS, HP, Lenovo, and Microsoft.
Alternatively, if you own a digital camera, you might also be in luck, as most brands, including Sony and Nikon, make their devices with USB-C ports.
