Understanding the Current iPhone Connection

Since the iPhone 5, Apple's devices have relied on the proprietary “Lightning” standard. Prior to that, we had the cumbersome 30-pin connector, which could only be inserted in one orientation.

While Lightning was a notable improvement—allowing users to connect their devices without worrying about orientation—it’s now time to move past this outdated technology.

Lightning is Slow and Outdated

The iPhone 5 introduced the Lightning port in 2013, and here we are in 2022 still relying on it. It’s astonishing that we are using technology that is nearly a decade old!

The Lightning connector operates on the USB 2.0 standard, which has a maximum data transfer rate of just 480 Mbps. While this may have been adequate in the past, it now falls short.

Modern USB technologies have advanced significantly. For example:

• USB 3.0 offers speeds of 5 Gbps, making it more than ten times faster than USB 2.0.
• USB 3.1 escalates that to 10 Gbps, nearly 21 times faster.
• USB 3.2 can reach speeds up to 20 Gbps, over 41 times faster than Lightning.
• USB 4 can achieve an astounding 40 Gbps, dwarfing Lightning’s meager 480 Mbps.

This is simply unacceptable, Apple.

The Competition: Android’s USB-C Advantage

Many Android devices have already adopted USB-C. While Apple leads in various tech areas, it lags significantly in this aspect. Numerous Android smartphones currently utilize USB-C with speeds starting at USB 3.0. Even older models, like my Pixel 2 from 2017, featured USB-C.

Although some lower-end Android phones may still use USB 2.0 connectors, that’s generally acceptable for their target audience. However, the iPhone is marketed as a premium device.

Apple’s Other Devices Use USB-C

What’s particularly frustrating is that Apple’s own iPad Pro and the latest MacBook models already use USB-C for charging. Except for a few MacBook models that support MagSafe, all recent MacBooks and the iPad Pro come equipped with a USB-C port.

Yet, the iPhone remains tethered to the outdated Lightning connector.

Regulatory Pressure for Change

According to The Verge, by 2024, all phones sold in the European Union must incorporate USB-C. While I’m not generally in favor of government intervention in business, this regulation could significantly benefit consumers globally.

One common frustration is needing to borrow a charger from a friend, only to discover they have a different type. It’s incredibly inconvenient. EU lawmakers seem to recognize this issue, and they are mandating USB-C integration by 2024.

However, it remains uncertain whether Apple will implement USB-C on U.S. models or only for those sold in Europe.

A Call for Progress

I understand that Apple may not be swayed by my opinions, but it is undoubtedly overdue for the company to adopt USB-C for its iPhones—especially for the Pro models. It’s disheartening to see devices priced over $1,000 with data transfer speeds reminiscent of the early 2000s.

Come on, Apple, you can do better than this!

In this video, the creator explores a variety of USB-C accessories compatible with the iPhone 15 Pro, showcasing their functionality and performance.

This video discusses the creator's experience using USB-C on the iPhone over the past three months, highlighting the advantages and challenges of the new connector.