The days of the Proprietary Lightning connector finally might end up -in fact, we might only count backwards before Apple Trenching old technology. While support for devices and accessories that use it will last for years, Apple will stay away from lightning and to more standard technology. Writing has been on the wall for years, of course, but the recent legal development may have tracked the migration quickly. It seems that all parts will finally fall next year with the launch of the iPhone 15, the first of the type is expected to use a USB-C. Apparently, it will not be alone, and Apple might move everything to USB-C, including cases of filling airpods.
Lightning Connector was developed to overcome one of the biggest weaknesses of the computing industry. Almost all connectors, including Apple’s old 30-pin connector, cannot be reversed and the right insertion is needed to work. Even worse, they pose a risk of port and destructive plugs if entered incorrectly, which occurs more often than you think.
The emergence of USB-C and Thunderbolt 3 makes the special problem disappear. For the first time, no problem in which direction you are connected to the USB cable as long as it is the correct cable. There are still some fuzzy areas in terms of compatibility and features, but most of the time, it only functions. Apple itself has become a strong supporter of USB-C and Thunderbolt who are newer on Mac, but too much invested in lightning on mobile devices to do fast jumps. However, time is almost gone, and it seems that 2023 might be the year when everything changes.
The end of Lightning may be only months away
According to Tweet from the famous analyst Ming-chi Kuo (via 9to5mac), the iPhone 15 next year will switch to USB-C, the possibility of making it the last Apple mobile device that does it. Most iPad has migrated to USB-C, although the basic model still has to switch; It is hoped that this will occur this fall.
Kuo, however, also believes that filling cases for all AirPods next year will also use a USB-C connector. Unfortunately too early for the upcoming AirPods Pro 2 to use standard connectors, so those who want to ride a USB-C must wait until next year, assuming rumors prove to be true. However, after that it happened, almost all Apple devices will dispose of lightning connectors for USB-C. Whether it will be the exact same USB-C standard or something that is enhanced by Apple is left visible.
This predicted schedule is in accordance with Apple’s compliance to switch an iPhone to USB-C in 2024, according to the New EU Law. Of course, throwing a lightning connector will not be a simple problem to replace one connector for another. Changes will have implications for many accessories, especially third parties, who use lightning technology to function. Re-working on the product to use a USB-C will not occur overnight, and this transition from Lightning to USB-C will be very annoying. Fortunately, there is still time to adjust the design and pipeline, but Apple might have to give a head manufacturer long before that happens.