Does Apple iPhone Have USB-C

Update: The iPhone 15 lineup released on the Apple "Wonderlust" Event 2023 now supports USB-C.

While browsing through user forums, you might have come across questions such as "Does iPhone have USB-C?" Well, USB-C has been an integral part of all android devices since 2012. It could even be found in the previous versions of Apple iPads and iPhones. However, Apple has decided to upgrade things for the better with Lighting ports which has replaced the USB-C ports in its Pro 11 series models. Today, we shall discuss in detail about both iPhone USB-C as well as iPhone lightning cable and what it means for users of modern days.

Why Didn't Apple Consider USB-C in Its iPhone 16/15/14/13/12/11

The Apple iPhone 16/15/14/13/12/11 comes equipped with a standard 5W USB-A charger making it necessary to purchase a separate power brick supporting USB-C Power and a USB-C to Lightning cable. Although the iPad Pro has already made the switch, Apple needs to be more compatible with different accessories and hubs meant for USB-C laptops now that it is slowly trying to become a popular laptop replacement. iPhone on the other hand is focussing on a smaller market category which has kept it contented with just Lightning connected accessories.

The Lightning port had hit the market back in 2012, making it a predecessor of the USB-C. It was developed by Apple at a time when the market of mobile accessories was infiltrated by chunky USB ports. But Apple took the call of sticking with iPhone lightning cable because of the following reasons:

• It is fraction in size than its 30-pin predecessor and also reversible unlike the micro-USB present in Android phones. Apple wanted to impart a slim look and feel to its iPhones making it necessary to come up with their proprietary connector.

• Lightning port also ranks higher in terms of robustness making it ideal for heavy duty usage. Apple customers can be seen shelling out premium amounts for their devices. The main reason behind this is that they expect these devices to last for long. Opting for USB-C on the devices would simply add up to its volume without helping out with its robustness.

We will now take a brief look at the different Apple models and the ones which use lightening connector as well as the ones using USB-C.

A Comparison: USB-C Vs Lightning

1. USB-C

USB-C was developed by keeping in mind the future devices and allowed older devices to be connected with new peripherals. iPhone USB-C docking stations and hubs can multiply ports.

Pros
• New iPhone USB Type-C ports can deal with data transfer at super-fast speeds. It can easily transfer 10 Gbps data at the blink of an eye.
• They are extremely versatile and can help users connect with older Type-C ports as well as devices using unconventional USB technologies such as Ethernet and VGA.

Cons
• The connecting tabs of iPhone USB-C are present on the port and serve as possible points of failure. If the iPhone X USB-C port gets broken, then the entire port will have to be replaced.

2. Lightning Connector

The Lighting connector was developed back in 2012 as Apple was not contented with the micro-USB port.

Pros
• The iPhone lightning adapter is more durable than iPhone 2020 USB-C.
• Connecting tabs are present in the iPhone lightning cable itself.
• The iPhone lightning cable can be easily remedied by cable replacement if somehow the tabs present on the lightning cable gets broken.
• The iPhone lightning adapter can handle 12W power.

Cons
• It cannot be plugged in through the double end.
• Does not support power streams and video signals simultaneously.