The tech giant stated that the iPhone 15, which was introduced on Tuesday at its annual event, would adopt a USB-C connector as the “universally accepted standard.” A new Apple Watch series with a more sophisticated chip was also announced. But, one analyst predicted that Apple’s absence of “headline-grabbing” improvements this year will disappoint some.
“Given the maturity of the iPhone and Watch, it’s not surprising,” said Ben Wood of CCS Insight. “That shows how sophisticated the iPhone and Watch products are, as well as how difficult it has gotten to offer truly disruptive changes every year.”
Technology News UK has learned that Apple has announced a £29 ($36) USB-C-to-Lightning port converter. The gadget connects people’s existing lightning port accessories to its new USB-C-enabled iPhones and iPads. The new iPhone, which goes on sale next week, is the first to include an additional charging port since 2012.
The USB-C cable, which is already compatible with many Apple computers and iPads, will also be compatible with new AirPods Pro earphones and corded EarPods headphones, according to the company. The EU had instructed the tech giant to abandon its proprietary charging connectors in order to make life easier for consumers, save them money, and assist in reducing e-waste by encouraging charger reuse.
In response, Apple used its Tuesday launch event to make a variety of environmental promises about its new products, including making the new Apple Watch line carbon neutral for the first time.