Uniform USB ports: EU warns Apple

The EU has decided that from 2024, only electronic devices with a wired charging option may be sold in its territory if this is standardized. This affects Apple in particular, which has relied on a Lightning connector for its iPhones so far. The EU has warned Apple once again on the occasion of the upcoming presentation of the iPhone 15.

Rumors about authentication chip

It is considered certain that Apple will abandon the Lightning connector in its new iPhone and instead switch to a USB-C connector. The reason for this step is the new EU regulation, which will require such a connector from 2024. According to rumors, however, Apple wants to use other means to ensure that only charging cables certified by the company can be used. For example, an authentication chip is said to be provided in the cable, which ensures that third-party charging accessories do not work or do not work completely. Apple itself has not commented on this yet and has not made a corresponding announcement.

However, the rumors were enough for the EU to write to Apple with a warning. The responsible EU commissioner, Thierry Breton, has pointed out to Apple in a letter that such restrictions are not permissible according to the new law from 2024. As early as March, talks are said to have taken place with Apple in this regard.

Apple does not have to respond

Apple does not have to respond to the letter, however. Since the new law will not come into force until the end of 2024, the company could continue to install as many charging restrictions as it likes until then. However, as already mentioned, the signs point to a change. There is also the possibility that the rumors have no factual basis. This is supported by the fact that Apple has been using standard USB-C charging ports for its iPads for quite some time and does not restrict them with authentication chips.

All in all, it looks like Apple wants to comply with the EU directives in order to ensure the sale of its products in the EU even after 2024. However, the iPhone 15 is not yet subject to these new guidelines because it will be launched before the new law comes into force. So Apple has a free hand here.