Introduction

In just two weeks, Apple will say goodbye to some of its well-known iPhone models in all 27 countries of the European Union (EU). As we approach the end of 2024, the tech giant plans to stop selling the third-generation iPhone SE and the iPhone 14 series. These devices are currently the last remaining iPhones that utilize Apple’s proprietary Lightning charger and port for both charging and data transfer.

Regulatory Changes Due to the Digital Markets Act

The upcoming change is dictated by the Digital Markets Act (DMA), which mandates that starting January 2025, all smartphones sold in the EU must be equipped with a USB-C port. This regulation aims to mitigate the environmental impact of electronic waste by standardizing charging cables across various devices. With this transition, users switching from iOS to Android and vice versa will find relief in knowing they won't need a different charging cable when switching brands, drastically reducing the number of cables discarded.

Apple's Shift to USB-C

Last year, Apple mostly made the switch to USB-C with the iPhone 15 series, making it the first complete lineup of iPhones to offer this modern charging solution. Although Apple could have opted to release newer versions of the iPhone 14 series and the third-generation iPhone SE featuring USB-C ports for the European market, the company has chosen instead to discontinue these models altogether in the region.

Availability in Other Regions

However, for consumers in other regions, like the United States, the iPhone 14 series and the third-generation iPhone SE with Lightning ports will remain available until next spring. This timeframe coincides with the anticipated launch of the highly-anticipated iPhone SE 4, which will embrace the USB-C standard across all markets.

Features of the Upcoming iPhone SE 4

The iPhone SE 4 is set to be a game-changer in the budget smartphone arena, being the first model to showcase an edge-to-edge display, the Notch, and Face ID capabilities. Drawing design inspiration from the iPhone 14, the SE 4 will impress with 8GB of RAM and is expected to be powered by the upcoming A18 application processor, equipping the device with enhanced capabilities for harnessing Apple’s AI technologies.

Conclusion

Stay tuned for more updates as Apple navigates this transformative shift and adapts its product offerings in compliance with EU regulations! Will the elimination of these models affect your purchase plans? Let us know your thoughts!