The EU warns of blocking the sale of iPhones in Europe, a condition that must be met
The European Union has warned Apple that if it will limit the functionality of the USB-C charging port, it may ban the sale of devices en masse, writes TechoNews.
Last year, the EU passed a law that will require iPhones and many other cable-charging devices to be equipped with a USB-C port before they can be sold. Apple has until December 28, 2024 to comply with the law, but the switch from Lightning to USB-C is expected to happen with the iPhone 15 models later this year.
In February, reports emerged that Apple may be planning to limit the charging speed and other functionality of USB-C cables that are not certified under the Made for iPhone program.
In response to the speculation, European Commissioner Thierry Breton sent Apple a letter warning the company that limiting the functionality of USB-C cables will not be allowed and will prevent iPhone sales in the EU when the law takes effect, according to the statement. The letter was obtained by German news agency DPA, and the report says the EU warned Apple during a meeting in mid-March.
Given that it has until the end of 2024 to comply with the law, Apple may still go ahead with including a chip in the USB-C port in iPhone 15 models later this year. And with iPhone 16 models expected to launch in September 2024, those devices will also be on the market before the law takes effect. However, there have only been media reports about Apple limiting the functionality of the USB-C charger port. The company has not yet reacted.
