Don’t get your hopes up for USB-C on Apple’s 2019 iPhones

While there are rumours every year, there have been an increasing amount of reports surrounding Apple’s supposed switch to USB-C on its 2019 iPhone range. Sadly, hopes might be dashed by a new report which suggests that Apple will in fact retain its Lightning cable and slower 5W USB-A charger.

Apple reportedly dropping the restrictive Lightning cable on its 2019 range of smartphones came before the release of the iPhone XS series last year, with DigiTimes citing various “analog IC vendors” as its sources. This was followed up by a report from Bloomberg just last month, outlining that Apple was supposedly testing “some versions” of the iPhone with a USB-C and 3D cameras in preparation for a potential augmented reality (AR) headset.

This has since been challenged by Mac Otakara, translated by 9to5Mac, which states that Apple won’t be changing anything this time around. Even more surprising, the report states that the company will be shipping its slower 5W USB-A charger in the box, meaning those that want faster charging will have to buy a separate USB-C to Lightning cable and compatible power brick.

Apple isn’t adverse to the USB-C connector, having adopted the port on most of its modern MacBooks and the 2018 iPad Pro. This is an effort to better compete in the laptop market, allowing its devices to connect up to 5 external displays. As frustrating as it might be, it wouldn’t be surprising to see the company deem the same effort as unnecessary on its iPhone models.

It would be perplexing for Apple to continue bundling its 5W USB-A charger however, as the company has supported fast charging since 2017 yet never provided the necessary hardware with its now $1,000 handsets.

Mac Otakara gained credibility for its correct prediction that Apple would drop the Lightning cable on last year’s iPad Pro, but these reports are still firmly rumour territory until the company itself acknowledges what it has in store. The 2019 iPhone series likely won’t see the light of day until much later in the year, so we have a little wait on our hands in the meantime.

KitGuru Says: Given that battery life is perhaps the iPhone’s weakest component, Apple could really do with providing a USB-C to Lightning charger if it retains the old connector. Would you prefer Apple to keep its Lightning cable or make the jump to USB-C?

Become a Patron!