Apple has withdrawn the iPhone SE and iPhone 14 from sale in Switzerland and the European Union. This is because those devices still use Apple’s now outlawed Lightning connector for charging. The EU’s regulation, EU Directive 2022/2380, is designed to minimise e-waste and enable users to use the same cable to charge all their devices. It also allows people to purchase devices without chargers to encourage reuse. Saudi Arabia has joined the EU with its own USB-C mandate.
Withdrawal of the iPhone 14, iPhone 14 Plus and iPhone SE from Apple online and physical stores, as well as its reseller network, is unlikely to make a significant dent in Apple’s massive revenues. But it may have a more significant effect over time.
The problem with the EU’s mandate is that it effectively makes it impossible for a new, better connector to come to the market.
When we look at Apple’s history with the iPhone and iPod we see a story of evolution. At first, Apple used FireWire with the iPod before moving to its 30-pin connector. When the limitations of that connector were reached (and because of its fragility) Apple developed Lightning. Apple also developed MagSafe as a charging solution for its laptops using that time.
Each of those changes was possible because Apple had the capability to develop new connectors that improved on its predecessors. Apple reintroduced MagSafe for its laptops but also supports USB-C charging on those devices. That leaves it well placed when the USB-C charging mandate impacts laptops in April 2026.
USB-C, we must remember, is a connector that can be used for multiple purposes. It can be used for power only, to carry data , for video and for combinations of those functions. What if someone develops a connector that is superior to USB-C? How can they bring it to market if one of the world’s largest markets doesn’t allow it? What’s the incentive to even try to create a better connector.
Apple has never been shy to try to rely new types of connectors. Some of those choices have created challenges for users. FireWire 400, FireWire 800, ADB and Mini DisplayPort all made life ‘interesting’ as they came and went. But Apple was a very early mover to USB-A and USB-C. It retained Lightning for the iPhone and several other devices such as its keyboards, mice, trackpads and Apple TV remotes although some of those devices have moved to USB-C charging more recently.
Apple has been pushed to move to USB-C. While this will have short term benefits, it may end up stifling innovation. And Apple, as a company that has continually sought to innovate when it comes to the ports it makes available to users.
Why it would bother now that the EU has forced the world’s hand?
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.