Apple will stop selling iPhones with Lightning in the EU in 2025
By ForGeeks Apple will stop selling iPhone models with a Lightning connector in the European Union from the beginning of 2025. This decision is due to the introduction of new legislation, the Digital Markets Act (DMA), which requires all smartphone manufacturers to equip devices with a USB-C port.
Apple will stop selling iPhones with Lightning connectors in the European Union.
Which models will be affected?
- iPhone 14:
Apple’s latest flagship series with Lightning connector. - iPhone SE third generation:
Budget model with a classic design, also using Lightning.
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These devices will no longer be available for purchase in 27 EU countries starting January 2025.
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Why USB-C?
The new rules are aimed at:
- Electronic Waste Reduction: Unifying charging cables avoids throwing away old cables when switching from iOS to Android or vice versa.
- Consumer convenience: Users no longer have to buy different cables for different devices.
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The first line of iPhones with USB-C, the iPhone 15, came out last year.
Why isn’t Apple upgrading older models?”
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Theoretically, Apple could have upgraded the third-generation iPhone 14 and iPhone SE by equipping them with a USB-C port, but instead the company decided to simply remove them from its European lineup.
The Future of the iPhone SE and the End of Lightning
- iPhone SE 4:
The next budget model, scheduled to debut in spring 2025, will get:- .
- A USB-C connector for all markets;
- Full-screen design with Face ID and “bangs”, based on the iPhone 14 design;
- 8GB of RAM and possibly an A18 processor that will enable Apple Intelligence technologies;
- iPhone 14:
This series will remain available outside the EU until September 2025, when it will finally be replaced by the iPhone 17 lineup.
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Historical milestone: the end of the Lightning era
The Lightning connector was first introduced with the iPhone 5 in 2012, replacing the 30-pin connector used since 2007. With the discontinuation of iPhone 14 sales next year, the 13-year Lightning era for Apple will end.
The Lightning connector will be the first to be introduced with the iPhone 5 in 2012.
The measure marks a major transition for Apple and its users, finally solidifying USB-C as the universal charging standard.
The measure marks a major transition for Apple and its users, finally solidifying USB-C as the universal charging standard.
