Apple will now be forced to change iPhone charger under new EU law

Apple has long been known for having their own iPhone chargers that don't work with other phones, but will now be forced to change them under a new EU law.

The tech brand’s infamous ‘Lightning’ connector cable will soon be no more, as all technology companies will be required to adopt a USB-C cable under the new rule, which was approved by the European Parliament.

The rule, which comes in to play by the end of 2024, has already seen most phone and tablet manufacturers moving across to the universal charging lead.

However, Apple has predominantly stuck with their own version of the charger, and even previously argued that it would be more beneficial to adapt the charger on the other side of the cable, which gets plugged into the wall.

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There are rumours circulating the brand is already working on a charger which subscribes to these new USB-C rules for their iPhone product line.

The company has already implemented the new charger on their other products, including new versions of their MacBook and iPad.

Elsewhere, others have suggested that the brand may opt to remove a charging plug for their mobile devices altogether, and will instead focus on wireless, remote charging methods.

UNILAD has contacted a representative of Apple for a comment on the matter.

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The EU’s new rules require all mobile phones, tablets and cameras sold in EU countries to provide the USB-C charging port by 2024.

This requirement will then extend to laptops two years later, by 2026.

Also in 2024, the EU will be rolling out new rules around wireless charging by the end of the year.

The rules also include technological accessories like computer mouses. Apple currently uses a Lightning cable on their accessories like AirPods and keyboards.

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The EU has been campaigning for years to roll out a common charger between all devices, stating that the current differentiation between technology causes issues for consumers, and contributes to wasteful ‘throwaway’ ideologies.

Now, iPhone users have taken to Twitter to share their thoughts at the new chargers – and the majority seem pretty pleased with the change.

One social media user responded: "Wow. So my iPhone charger can last for more than year now?" While another added that the Type C charger is 'far more convenient'.

"Finally end of iPhone lightning charger," someone else wrote of the legislation change.

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