Apple Reportedly Tested Lightning Port on iPhone 15 Before Opting for USB-C

Apple is known for its innovation in technology, and the company is always looking for ways to improve its devices. One of the most persistent rumors surrounding Apple is the transition to USB-C ports in its iPhones. According to an Apple leaker known as Unknownz21, Apple had initially tested a version of the iPhone 15 with a Lightning port but quickly abandoned the idea in favor of the USB-C version.

Reports indicate that iPhone 15 models with USB-C were already in testing as early as January 2022, and all designs after March 2022 focused on a USB-C port. This year, Apple is expected to ditch the Lightning port for all four models of the iPhone 15, making it the first iPhone series to charge via USB-C instead of Lightning.

Some details about USB-C on the iPhone 15:

It was in testing as far back as January 2022, and pretty much all designs since March 2022 have had the USB-C port instead of lightning.

There was a version with a lightning port very early on, but it was quickly scrapped.

— Unknownz21 🌈 (@URedditor) April 18, 2023

USB-C ports have been present in the Mac lineup since 2015 and the iPad line since 2018. All iPads currently sold by Apple have a USB-C port, making the iPhone the only iOS device still using the Lightning port. The transition to USB-C for the iPhone is driven by European regulations that require a common charger for electronic devices, and the Lightning port is not permitted under these rules.

The move to USB-C across all Apple devices will make charging simpler because iPhones, iPads, and Macs will be able to share the same cable and power adapter. Apple will eventually need to update third-generation AirPods, AirPods Pro 2, AirPods Max, Magic Mouse, Magic Trackpad, Magic Keyboard, and original Apple Pencil, all of which continue to charge with Lightning.

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Apple may not rely on USB-C charging for too long, as the company has been pushing MagSafe wireless charging. iPhones since the iPhone 12 have incorporated MagSafe, and Apple may plan to add similar technology to future iPad models. There have also been rumors that Apple’s ultimate goal is to have a portless, all-display iPhone. With MagSafe and the upcoming launch of Qi2, which will allow for faster MagSafe-like charging speeds, this may be possible at some point.