Apple will stop including the Lightning connector on the iPhone 15. Failing that, it will add the USB-C option. What can we expect in return? Which option has more advantages and disadvantages?
As you well know, Apple will stop using its legendary Lightning cable connector to the detriment of a much more standardized option on the market, the USB-C option. The imminent iPhone 15 will be the first smartphone from the apple signature in having this technology. While it is true that this technology is available in other types of devices, we have never seen it in the range of mobile devices.
It is an important change, since breaks the hegemony of Lightning cables. In a way, it is a forced change that occurs as a consequence of the resolutions that have been taken in Europe with the aim of standardizing and homogenizing accessories in the industry close to mobile phones. Let’s see what substantial advantages and disadvantages there are behind this historic change. How will the commitment to USB-C affect the user of the iPhone 15 and later models? Here are some of the keys.
Lightning cable vs USB-C, two valid alternatives, but with a different potential
Who hasn’t complained about the compatibility of Apple accessories? Until now, buying an Android model or an Apple one does not only involve adapting to the operating systems. The change is even more substantial, since a cable that is compatible with the terminal must be purchased. Given the the majority of the market already has a USB-C cable, the European Union has established this option as the standard in the future. Apple, having to adapt to the Old Continent, has decided that it will include USB-C in all versions of the iPhone 15.
The Lightning cable It has been part of the Apple range since 2012. During all these years, it has been possible to see how some of the competitive advantages it offers remain valid even today. Here are its main differences compared to the competition:
- Compact and minimalist size
- Robust connector with great durability
- Reversible
On the contrary, we are faced with a technology that seems to have reached its maximum potential in terms of data transfer and charging. While in the Android ecosystem we can count on terminals capable of charging above 67 W, Apple models only allow charging at a maximum of 30 W theoretically. This can weigh heavily in an industry like the current one. Furthermore, there are very few companies that are willing to invest in its improvement, since the bulk of the market is migrating to investing in the USB-C option.
The USB-C alternative has been the one has had a greater role in the industry smartphone since 2014. Having been born a couple of years after the Lightning, it has turned out to be more successful due to its greater potential in terms of power and performance. These are the main advantages that this modality offers:
- Data transfer of up to 40 Gbps in its fourth generation
- Greater compatibility with third-party accessories
- Can be used as a connector for many types of devices
Thus, his greatest flexibility in terms of power and compatibility It is what has allowed him to win the battle. On the contrary, it is a somewhat more delicate connector, so more care must be taken in day-to-day use. Be that as it may, everything seems to indicate that the new generation of the iPhone will have a more capable cable according to current standards.