Apple has officially removed its remaining Lightning-based devices from its online stores in Europe, including the iPhone SE, iPhone 14 series, and the Lightning-based Magic Keyboard.
This move aligns with the European Union’s new Directive 2022/2380, which requires all devices that charge via cable to adopt the USB-C standard starting December 28, 2024.
The shift is aimed at reducing e-waste and addressing market fragmentation caused by incompatible charging solutions. While these devices are no longer available in the EU, they remain for sale in other regions, including the U.S.
Apple’s Transition to USB-C
This action by Apple marks a significant step in complying with the EU’s push for a universal charging solution.
The new directive mandates that devices sold within the EU must transition to USB-C charging, phasing out proprietary solutions like Apple’s Lightning port.
Apple has already introduced USB-C in some of its other devices, such as recent iPads and MacBooks, and a new iPhone SE with a USB-C port is expected to be released in 2025.
The EU’s Broader Push for Sustainability
EU Directive 2022/2380 is not just about standardizing charging ports. It also aims to cut down on electronic waste by encouraging consumers to reuse existing chargers.
- USB Power Delivery (USB PD) Standard for fast charging
- Unbundling Charging Bricks so consumers don’t have to buy new chargers with every device
- Clearer Labeling of power requirements on product labels
These changes are expected to simplify the charging experience and help the EU meet its sustainability goals.
The Industry Impact and What’s Next
The directive will have a far-reaching impact, affecting a wide range of devices, from smartphones to digital cameras and e-readers.
As USB-C becomes the new industry standard, other manufacturers are likely to follow suit, making USB-C the default for charging devices. While Apple has made a strong start with its transition, competitors are expected to quickly adopt USB-C across their product lines.
Consumer Benefits
For consumers, the switch to USB-C offers a more convenient charging solution. USB-C allows faster data transfer and charging speeds and works across multiple device types, reducing the need to carry various chargers.
The unbundling of charging bricks will also save consumers money, while helping to reduce waste.
A Historic Move Toward Global Standardization
As of December 28, 2024, the EU’s USB-C charging mandate will officially take effect, marking a significant shift in technology standardization and environmental sustainability.
By reducing e-waste and streamlining the charging experience, the EU is setting an example for other regions, potentially inspiring similar initiatives worldwide.
In addition to smartphones, tablets, and other devices, laptops will also eventually be required to adopt USB-C, with a compliance deadline extended to April 2026 due to the higher power needs of laptops.
The Environmental and Economic Impact
The EU’s directive is primarily focused on reducing e-waste. With millions of unused chargers ending up in landfills every year, the new law aims to eliminate unnecessary waste and encourage the use of reusable, universal charging solutions.
This could save consumers an estimated €250 million annually by opting out of unnecessary charger purchases.
Apple’s move to remove its Lightning-based devices from European markets represents a key moment in the company’s transition toward a universal charging standard.
As the EU’s mandate takes effect, it could serve as a global benchmark for technology companies and regulators alike, ensuring a more sustainable and consumer-friendly future for electronic devices worldwide.
