Apple responded to EU regulatory requirements by finally switching charging cables to USB-C. The company yesterday unveiled a new iPhone (among others) that will use USB-C charger ports. All previous iPhone models used Apple's Lightning ports.
In June 2022, the European Union passed a law which requires all devices to be compatible with a USB Type-C charging port by the end of 2024, claiming it will reduce e-waste and save money for consumers.
Apple had challenged the law as unnecessary, but actually did not agree because by changing its cables to USB-C, it is losing money leaving behind the Lightning that was exclusive to the company.
“USB-C has become a globally accepted standard. So we're bringing USB-C to the iPhone 15," said Kaiann Drance, Apple's Vice President of iPhone Marketing at the launch event for the new device.
Apple has claimed for years that the Lightning chargers it used were safer than USB-C chargers.
The company also said that the iPhone 15 will have internal components that will simplify the repair of the device and a new frame that will allow for easy replacement of the back glass.
This of course did not happen by accident, but after the passing of a law in California that requires manufacturers to allow devices to be repaired without having to return them to the companies.
The company also announced that iPhone 15 batteries will be made from 100% recycled cobalt.
It also added that the new smartwatch it introduced will be its first carbon neutral product, as it aims to be carbon neutral by 2030.
iPhone sales, which account for nearly half of Apple's revenue, fell 2,4 percent last quarter. Apple shares also fell on the stock market after Beijing imposed restrictions on the use of the iPhone in government offices and government employees in general.
