Apple is pulling the latest iPhone models with Lightning port from its Swiss online store, due to a new EU regulation imposing USB-C as the standard.
The third-generation iPhone SE, iPhone 14 and iPhone 14 Plus, which still feature Apple’s Lightning ports, are now listed as unavailable in Apple’s online store in Switzerland, noted MacRumors. This is Apple’s response to the EU regulation that goes into effect Dec. 28. Namely, that states that all electronics must feature a USB-C port.
USB Type-C
The new iPhone 15 and iPhone 16 models are already equipped with USB Type-C. The iPhone SE, iPhone 14 and iPhone 14 Plus currently still feature Apple’s Lightning ports. These models have now been pulled from Apple’s online store in Switzerland. As recently as October, Apple proudly announced that the Magic Mouse and Magic Trackpad will now feature USB-C ports.
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This change comes under the influence of a European regulation. Based on a 2022 legislation, the EU requires all electronics manufacturers to integrate the same charging port into their products. This should reduce the oversupply of different chargers and cables, and thus reduce electronic waste. These regulations go into effect from Dec. 28, 2024, which means that all 27 other EU countries must be in compliance from then on.