As Apple (NASDAQ:AAPL) prepares for the launch of its iPhone 15 series, the company is reportedly training its retail employees to emphasize the new charging requirements to customers. The new devices will switch from the proprietary Lightning chargers to USB-C, rendering existing chargers incompatible with the new models. This information was shared on Friday.
Apple has used its proprietary Lightning port on iPhone models for over a decade. However, in recent years, all of Apple's Macs and iPads have transitioned to the more universal USB-C charging standard. The switch to USB-C for iPhones was reportedly accelerated by regulatory pressures in Europe. Despite initial reluctance, Apple stands to profit significantly from this change.
When purchasing an iPhone 15 model, customers will be informed that while a USB-C to USB-C cable is included in the box, a USB-C charger is not. As a result, staff will direct customers towards the available Apple USB-C power adapters and additional Apple-certified USB-C cables in-store.
Apple analyst Ming-Chi Kuo reported that Apple had significantly increased its shipment forecast for its 20W USB-C charger by approximately 120% for Q3 2023. The company expects to ship about 70 million units of the charger in Q4 2023. Overall, Apple's 20W USB-C charger shipments in 2023 are expected to see a significant year-on-year growth of 30–40%, amounting to 230–240 million units.
The anticipated iPhone 15 series will reportedly support faster charging speeds when used with MFi-certified USB-C chargers, including Apple's own 20W Power Adapter. The iPhone 15 models will only officially support USB-C accessories certified by the Apple Made for iPhone (MFi) program.
Apple's supplier Foxconn (TPE:2354) is said to be producing MFi-certified accessories like EarPods and cables with USB-C connectors. Apple is also expected to release a new AirPods Pro USB-C charging case. Some iPhone 15 models could support charging speeds up to 35W, allowing for quicker charging with an appropriate power adapter.
Currently, the iPhone 14 models can charge at a maximum of around 27W, with the Pro models able to charge slightly faster. An increase to 35W would speed up charging times. If the iPhone 15 models support up to 35W charging, Apple could start recommending its 30W MacBook Air charger or its 35W Dual USB-C charger for maximum charging speed.
Overall, Apple stands to gain significant revenue from USB-C accessory sales as it effectively renders obsolete Lightning accessories already used by hundreds of millions of Apple customers worldwide. With iPhone 15 prices anticipated to increase, customers will also have to brace themselves for the additional financial burden of replacing chargers and cables.
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