Apple Phases Out Lightning iPhones in EU Ahead of New USB-C Law

Under EU law, all smartphones sold within the EU must use a USB-C interface. The EU has primarily established this law based on the universality of the USB-C interface and to reduce electronic waste.

Previously, seeing the fruitless lobbying efforts with the EU, Apple started to transition its products from its proprietary Lightning interface to the USB-C interface, including but not limited to the iPhone, iPad, and AirPods.

However, some existing products are still being sold, such as the third-generation iPhone SE, iPhone 14, and iPhone 14 Plus, which still use Apple's proprietary Lightning interface.

In light of the new EU law taking effect from December 28, 2024, Apple has gradually started to remove existing products from its lineup, with sales completely stopping on December 28.

Starting next week, Apple will stop selling iPhones with the Lightning interface in the affected 27 EU countries or regions, including Austria, Belgium, Denmark, France, Germany, Ireland, Italy, the Netherlands, Spain, and so on.

It's worth noting that while Apple is removing these products from its official stores, authorized Apple resellers can continue selling them until their stock is depleted. After this, Apple will no longer supply these resellers with iPhones featuring the Lightning interface.

As for other markets, there are currently no similar mandatory regulations, so Apple can continue to sell any products with the Lightning or USB-C interfaces in these markets.

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