TechPhonesiPhonesI don’t want a Lightning or a USB-C port on my next iPhoneThe question shouldn’t be whether the iPhone 15 will use a Lightning or USB-C connector, it should be whether it has one at allWhen you purchase through links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission.Here’s how it works.
TechPhonesiPhonesI don’t want a Lightning or a USB-C port on my next iPhoneThe question shouldn’t be whether the iPhone 15 will use a Lightning or USB-C connector, it should be whether it has one at allWhen you purchase through links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission.Here’s how it works.
The question shouldn’t be whether the iPhone 15 will use a Lightning or USB-C connector, it should be whether it has one at all
When you purchase through links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission.Here’s how it works.
(Image credit: Getty)
(Image credit: Getty)
Like most people these days, I have a drawer full of power leads. There’s power connectors for external hard drives, printer cables, HDMI, audio and LAN cables. There’s a healthy number ofApplechargers too. If I look hard enough I can pull out not just the recent USB-A to Lightning, USB-C to Lightning and USB-C to USB-C (for theiPad Air) ones, but also a few older USB-A to 30-pin ones and even the first Firewire to 30-pin leads for the original iPods.
Because of this, I understand the logic behind unifying all thebest smartphonesto a single USB-C charger. It means those charging stations you get at airports and train stations only need to provide one wire, hotels could have the right lead in your room and the chances are something in my drawer will charge just about any phone I’m testing.
The problem is that using any wire feels a bit dated to me now. So my question for the nextiPhone(probably the iPhone 15 at this stage) is not, should it have a Lightning or USB-C connector, it’s should it have a connector at all?
This is the simplest way to charge any phone.(Image credit: Apple)
This is the simplest way to charge any phone.
This is the simplest way to charge any phone.
(Image credit: Apple)
TheApple Watchhas never had a plug-in socket of any kind. Instead, it sits on its mini MagSafe charger or a compatible charging mat with no issues at all. So why do we still need one for the iPhone?
Wireless charging stations are even more universal than USB-C leads and they mean you don’t have frayed or broken wires to worry about. Just place the phone on the surface and let it charge, albeit at a slower rate.
Yes, there could be occasions where there are no wireless charging spots available and your only option is a physical lead. What would the imaginary port-less phone do then? Simple. Apple produces an adapter. Instead of supplying the iPhone with a cable, supply it with a MagSafe disc that connects to a USB cable. In fact, go one further and offer both USB-C and Lightning connectors on the Magsafe disc. That way you could connect it to any lead while the iPhone itself remains clear of ports and lint from my pocket.
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I’m sure there is scope too for case manufacturers to build a charging disc into an iPhone battery case for those that really want the choice. Or even a nice leatherette one that also holds your credit cards. I on the other hand will just be enjoying one less hole in my phone.
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