Apple has recently announced with the arrival of the new iPhone 15 they will be switching and adapting USB-C chargers to their system. Additionally, they will be disposing of the Lightning connectors they have been using for years. The company has stated that the switching of their charging system is a strategy in order to make consumers experience easier.
The new charging update is one that is already incorporated into iPads and the latest Apple computers this way all the devices can be charge through the same device. Apple, also said that the changes will too be incorporated into there latest iteration of its AirPods Pro and into all the future generations of smartphones.
Reason For The Update
Apple’s version of why they switched their charging system, as they said was to join, “universally accepted standard.” However, this is actually not the real reason behind the new change.
The real reason behind the change came due to the fact that the European Union in less than a year voted to approved legislation that required all smartphones, tablets, digital cameras, portable speakers and other small devices. To support the new USB-C charging system by 2024. In order to reduce e-waste and make life easier for consumers as well. Despite the company having their doubts on the upgrade before, now they are all in on the change.
Alternatives
For does customers who do not wish to change their old Lightning plug devices yet or have any plug that they can not switch at the moment. There is an alternative option. Apple is now offering a USB-C adapter cable. However the cost of this device is of $29 which many people believe is a lot for an adaptor. The company has stated the device should also be able to work with most car plugs that have CarPlay.
Additionally, when purchasing the iPhone 15 and iPhone 15 Pro, inside the box customers should also receive a 1-meter USB-C cable with connecters on both ends. This will save time and money for many as there will be no need for anyone to go out of there way to buy the new charger.
The included cable will have the same (relatively slow) data-transfer speed as a Lightning charger of 480 Mbps. Apple will also be selling the cable separately for $19 which is relatively cheaper then the adapter.
How to Choose the Right USB-C Charger
If people do not plan to buy an additional charger through Apple other than the one it provides when purchasing a new iPhone. Here is how to make the right decision about this cable when purchasing it outside of Apple. First everyone needs to know that this charges can go from price under $10 to prices over $160. There is no need for anyone to waste so much money if the purpose of the cable will only be to charge the device.
Regardless of this everyone still wants to buy the best charger option for there device and here is some advice and options. It is recommended to stick with reputable brands like Anker, Cable Matters and Monoprice.
As well to at the most minimum, choose brands that have been certified by a trade group called the USB implementers Forum, or USB-IF. This certification will confirmed the device has been tested multiple times and is a safe and good quality object.
Comments
Some of the comments surrounding the new update have been overall positive. Many customers are obviously surprised by the upgrade others are slightly upset. Despite this many people believe the upgrade is for the better and overall it will benefit many people. For example:
- “This is arguably the biggest disruption to iPhone design for several years, but in reality, it is hardly a dramatic move,” said Ben Wood, an analyst at CCS Insight.
- Even Apple said, “We have no choice, like we do around the world, to comply with local laws, but we think the approach would have been better environmentally and better for our customers to not have a government [have] that perspective.”
Written By Nohemi Sanchez
Sources:
CNN BUISNESS: Here’s why Apple’s charger switch is such a big deal
The Washington Post: Apple is switching iPhone cables again. This time, that’s good.
The New York’s Time: Apple Unveils iPhone 15 and Switches to USB-C Charger
Featured Image Courtesy of Nohemi Sanchez
Inset Images Courtesy of HS You Flickr Page – Creative Commons License
