EU confirms Apple can make a portless iPhone without USB-C

EU confirms Apple can make a portless iPhone without USB-C

  • 19.03.2025 12:17
  • 9to5mac.com
  • Keywords: No

The EU permits Apple to create a portless iPhone without USB-C as long as it doesn't require wired charging, allowing wireless-only devices under their regulations.

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Context

Analysis: EU Confirmation on Apple’s Portless iPhone and Market Implications

Overview

  • The European Union (EU) has clarified that portless iPhones (without USB-C ports) would comply with its Common Charger Directive, as long as they do not include wired charging ports.

Key Facts and Data Points

1. EU Regulations on Charging Ports

  • The Common Charger Directive mandates that all devices sold in the EU must use a common charging port if they have one.
  • If a device lacks a wired charging port, it is exempt from this requirement.
  • USB-C became the standard after the directive was finalized, replacing the earlier proposed microUSB.

2. Apple’s Compliance with EU Regulations

  • Apple switched from its proprietary Lightning port to USB-C for iPhones to comply with the directive.
  • The deadline for compliance is January 2025, and Apple has already discontinued Lightning ports on most iPhone models, leaving only the iPhone SE and iPhone 14 series.

3. Bloomberg’s Report on Portless iPhone

  • Bloomberg reported that Apple considered making the iPhone 17 Air its first portless device, relying solely on MagSafe wireless charging.
  • However, concerns about EU regulations led to abandoning this plan for now.

4. EU Confirmation on Portless Devices

  • A portless phone would be compliant with EU law if it does not have a wired charging port.
  • The EU supports the harmonization of wireless charging standards to avoid market fragmentation and environmental impact.

5. Apple’s Strategic Move

  • Apple donated its MagSafe technology to the Wireless Power Consortium (WPC), ensuring compatibility with industry standards.
  • A future portless iPhone using MagSafe would be legally compliant in the EU.

Market Trends and Business Insights

1. Shift Toward Wireless Charging

  • The trend toward wireless charging is gaining momentum, driven by consumer demand for sleeker devices.
  • Portless smartphones could reduce e-waste and simplify device ecosystems.

2. Competitive Landscape

  • Other smartphone manufacturers (e.g., Samsung, Google) may follow Apple’s lead in exploring portless designs.
  • This shift could reduce hardware costs for manufacturers but requires investment in wireless charging infrastructure.

3. Strategic Considerations

  • Apple’s decision to keep USB-C for now balances innovation and regulatory compliance.
  • The company is positioning itself as a leader in wireless charging by donating MagSafe technology to the WPC.

Long-term Effects and Regulatory Implications

1. Potential Global Adoption

  • While the EU has set the precedent, other regions may follow suit in promoting wireless charging standards.
  • This could lead to a more unified global approach to device charging.

2. Environmental Impact

  • Portless devices reduce e-waste and simplify recycling processes.
  • The EU’s focus on harmonizing wireless charging aligns with its sustainability goals.

3. Regulatory Monitoring

  • The EU will monitor the evolution of wireless charging technologies, including their performance, interoperability, and energy efficiency.

Conclusion

The EU’s confirmation that portless iPhones are compliant with regulations opens the door for Apple to innovate further. While immediate adoption is unlikely, this decision sets the stage for a future where wireless charging dominates the smartphone market. Competitors will likely follow suit, leading to broader industry changes and regulatory scrutiny of emerging technologies.