Apple Testing iPhones with USB-C Port, Adapter for Lightning Accessories: Gurman

According to Bloomberg’s Mark Gurman, Apple is testing future iPhone models with a USB-C port, instead of the current Lightning connector.

Sources familiar with the matter tell Gurman a move to a USB-C iPhone may help Apple adhere to upcoming laws in the European Union, set to impose the newer universal port on smartphone makers and other electronics. The EU voted in favour of the change in April, with the proposed law yet to be finalized.

“We are concerned that regulation mandating just one type of connector for all devices on the market will harm European consumers by slowing down the introduction of beneficial innovations in charging standards, including those related to safety and energy efficiency,” said Apple last year.

Along with testing iPhone models with USB-C, Apple is also reportedly working on an adapter to let legacy Lightning accessories work with future models, say sources. This adapter will also work with non-Apple devices.

The earliest launch for a USB-C iPhone is 2023, says Gurman, while this year’s iPhones will retain the Lightning connector.

The USB-C standard is widely used in the industry and is already on most Apple products, including the iPad and Mac, along with chargers from the company. But some products such as AirPods and MagSafe products still use the aging and proprietary Lightning connector.