We’re just a few weeks away from the announcement of what we expect to be four new iPhones, the iPhone 15, iPhone 15 Max, iPhone 15 Pro and iPhone 15 Pro Max. Alas, we won’t see an iPhone 15 mini. One change we can almost certainly guarantee is the shift from Apple’s Lightning connector to USB-C.
The European Union set out laws mandating that all portable devices sold in the region must support USB-C charging. Now, Saudi Arabia’s local regulator has made the same decision with the first stage of enforcement starting on 1 January 2025.
Per Kahleej Times, the change will first hit mobile phones and other electronic devices such as headphones, keyboards, speakers, routers. By 1 April 2026, the mandate will extend to laptops. That will be less of a change for most laptop makers as USB-C has made substantial inroads into that market. While Apple does offer MagSafe for part of its laptop range, USB-C remains an option.
Similar policies, according to 9to5 Mac are being considered in Brazil and the United States of America.
Anthony is the founder of Australian Apple News. He is a long-time Apple user and former editor of Australian Macworld. He has contributed to many technology magazines and newspapers as well as appearing regularly on radio and occasionally on TV.