2023-10-01 17:56:21
The EU has decided that from 2024, only electronic devices with a wired charging option can be sold on its territory, provided that this is standardized. This particularly affects Apple, which until now relied on a Lightning connector for its iPhones. The EU has once once more warned Apple on the occasion of the upcoming presentation of the iPhone 15.
Authentication chip rumors
It is considered certain that Apple will abandon the Lightning connector in its new iPhone and instead switch to a USB-C connector. The reason for this step is the new European regulations, which will require such a connector from 2024. According to rumors, Apple, however, wants to use other means to ensure that only charging cables certified by the company can be used. For example, an authentication chip would be provided in the cable, which would ensure that third-party charging accessories do not work or fail completely. Apple itself has not yet commented on this topic and has not made a corresponding announcement.
However, the rumors were enough for the EU to write to Apple to warn it. The responsible European commissioner, Thierry Breton, pointed out to Apple in a letter that such restrictions are not permitted under the new law from 2024. As early as March, negotiations were reportedly taking place with Apple on this subject.
Apple does not have to respond
Apple is not required to respond to the letter, however. Since the new law won’t take effect until the end of 2024, the company might continue to impose as many charging restrictions as it wants between now and then. However, as we have already mentioned, the signs point to change. It is also possible that the rumors have no factual basis. This is supported by the fact that Apple has been using standard USB-C charging ports for its iPads for some time now and is not restricting them using authentication chips.
All in all, it seems that Apple wants to comply with EU directives in order to ensure the sale of its products in the EU even following 2024. However, the iPhone 15 is not yet subject to these new directives because it will be launched before the new law comes into force. Apple therefore has a free hand here.
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