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EU says it won’t get in the way of Apple’s portless iPhone

EU says it won’t get in the way of Apple’s portless iPhone

  • 20.03.2025 00:16
  • bgr.com
  • Keywords: Portless iPhone, EU Regulations

Apple is developing a portless iPhone with wireless charging capabilities, compliant with EU regulations. The iPhone 17 Air, set to launch in September, features USB-C and MagSafe charging, while a fully portless model remains pending.

Apple ProductsAAPLsentiment_dissatisfied

Estimated market influence

Apple

Apple

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Analyst rating: Buy

Apple is getting closer to manufacturing an iPhone model that has no ports and screen cutouts. Such a device would recharge and transmit data wirelessly.

Bloomberg

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Analyst rating: N/A

According to Bloomberg’s Mark Gurman, Apple will likely introduce this portless design this year.

Context

Business Insights and Market Implications

Key Facts and Data Points

  • Apple's Portless iPhone Development: Apple is developing an iPhone model without ports (USB-C or Lightning) for wireless charging and data transmission.

    • Expected launch: Likely in 2023, according to Bloomberg’s Mark Gurman.
    • Design features:
      • Wireless recharging via MagSafe.
      • Display covers front-facing camera and Face ID components.

  • EU USB-C Regulations Clarification:

    • EU regulations mandating USB-C ports on iPhones do not apply to portless devices since they cannot be charged wirelessly.
    • Apple’s MagSafe technology aligns with the EU’s promotion of wireless charging standards (Qi2).

  • iPhone 17 Air Release:

    • Scheduled for September 2023.
    • Features USB-C and MagSafe charging.

  • Future iPhone Models:

    • Rumored iPhone 18 models may eliminate camera cutouts, integrating Face ID under the screen.

Market Trends and Business Impact

  • Shift to Wireless Charging: The move aligns with global trends toward wireless charging solutions, reducing reliance on physical ports.
  • Differentiation in the Market: Apple’s portless design could differentiate it from competitors, enhancing its premium positioning.
  • Cost Implications:
    • Potential cost savings for Apple by omitting ports and cables.
    • May increase reliance on accessories like MagSafe chargers.

Competitive Dynamics

  • Apple's Leadership in Wireless Charging: Apple’s adoption of MagSafe as the Qi2 standard positions it ahead of competitors using other wireless charging technologies.
  • Potential Consumer Perception: The portless design may appeal to environmentally conscious consumers and tech enthusiasts, but could face skepticism regarding convenience and reliability.

Long-Term Effects and Regulatory Impact

  • Regulatory Adaptation: The EU’s clarification sets a precedent for future regulations on device connectivity and charging standards.
  • Industry-Wide Trends: Success of the portless iPhone could accelerate adoption across other smartphone manufacturers, reshaping the accessory market.

Strategic Considerations

  • Consumer Education: Apple may need to invest in educating consumers about the benefits of wireless charging and the reliability of MagSafe technology.
  • Ecosystem Impact: The shift to portless devices could disrupt existing accessory ecosystems, particularly for third-party developers and retailers.

Conclusion

Apple’s portless iPhone represents a significant step in smartphone design and functionality. While it faces potential challenges in consumer adoption and ecosystem adaptation, its alignment with global trends and regulatory standards positions it as a leader in innovation. The success of this model could have far-reaching implications for the broader electronics industry.