Apple has confirmed that its latest iPhone, the iPhone 15, will no longer feature its proprietary lightning charging port. Instead, the tech giant will adopt a USB-C cable as the “universally accepted standard” for its new devices. This change comes after the European Union (EU) mandated that Apple abandon its proprietary charging ports to enhance convenience for consumers, reduce e-waste, and save money.
In response to the EU regulations, Apple has released a USB-C-to-lightning port adapter priced at £29 ($36). This adapter allows users to connect their existing lightning port accessories to the new USB-C-enabled iPhones or iPads. It is worth noting that the iPhone 15 is the first model since 2012 to introduce an alternative charging port.
The EU’s directive aims to encourage charger re-use and reduce electronic waste. However, critics argue that it may also lead to an increase in discarded cables in the coming years. In an attempt to address this concern, Apple made several environmental pledges during its product launch event. These include making the new Apple Watch range carbon neutral, increasing the use of recycled materials in batteries and other components of the devices, and eliminating leather from its accessories.
Despite these advancements, some experts question whether consumers will be willing to pay the high price tags for the new iPhone models, considering they offer incremental improvements compared to their predecessors. The iPhone 15 starts at £799, while the iPhone 15 Pro starts at £999 in the UK. However, analysts believe that the overall experience and brand loyalty among Apple’s core user base may outweigh the perceived lack of groundbreaking updates.
Apple CEO Tim Cook expressed confidence in the new iPhone range, stating that they are the “best and most capable iPhones we’ve ever made”. The models boast brighter screens, improved camera systems, and a titanium frame for the Pro and Pro Max versions to enhance durability. Additionally, the new Apple Watch introduces gesture control, allowing wearers to answer or end calls with a double tap of two fingers.
While Apple’s shares experienced a slight decline following the announcement, the company’s shipments have been relatively stable compared to other major smartphone makers. Apple’s shipments decreased from 46.5 million to 45.3 million phones, while the global smartphone market as a whole saw a larger slump, according to Counterpoint Research.
Sources: BBC News