Amidst this shift towards USB-C, a handful of Apple devices and accessories are still sold with Lightning and are not switching to USB-C. These remnants harken back to the debut of the Lightning port on the iPhone 5 way back in 2012.
As expected by many tech enthusiasts and Apple fans, the iPhone 15 lineup marks a significant shift for the Cupertino giant as the new devices switch to USB-C from the Lightning port.
But that’s only part of it, as Apple has more in store for its ecosystem. The AirPods Pro now come with a USB-C charging case, and they’ve also introduced wired EarPods that sport a USB-C connector.
Devices that are not switching to USB-C port
Let’s take a closer look at what’s staying in the Lightning era:
- iPhone 14 Plus
- iPhone 14
- iPhone 13
- iPhone SE
- 9th generation iPad
- AirPods (2nd gen and 3rd gen)
- AirPods Max
- Apple Pencil (1st gen)
- Magic Keyboard (Mac version)
- Magic Mouse
- Magic Trackpad
- Various cables and adapters
Apple has yet to bid farewell to the Lightning connector entirely. However, it’s worth noting that they did discontinue two accessories that used Lightning after the iPhone 15 event: the MagSafe Battery Pack and the MagSafe Duo Charger. This signals the company’s intention to forge ahead with USB-C across its ecosystem.
What the future holds
While some of the products listed above are still tied to Lightning, the future will likely bring change. Apple tends to stay ahead of the curve in terms of technology, and it’s reasonable to anticipate that products like the AirPods Max and the trio of Magic accessories for the Mac will eventually switch to USB-C.
As for the older iPhones, iPad, and first-generation Apple Pencil, they may eventually fade away as Apple continues to push towards a unified USB-C future.
So, while we bid farewell to the Lightning era for some Apple products, it’s evident that the transition is an ongoing process. The shift to USB-C is a testament to Apple’s commitment to adapt and innovate, ensuring its ecosystem remains compatible and efficient in a fast-evolving tech landscape.
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Nutan is a BCA graduate with a keen interest in the world of consumer technology. A fan of both the Apple and Google ecosystems, he enjoys exploring the latest gadgets and how they can enhance our daily lives. Nutan specializes in crafting clear and informative how-to guides and comprehensive buying advice. His insightful reviews offer an in-depth look at the pros and cons of the newest tech products, helping readers make the best decisions for their needs.
