Affiliate Disclosure
If you buy through our links, we may get a commission. Read our ethics policy.

Why Apple won't ditch Lightning for USB-C on 'iPhone 8'

 

Last updated

Despite some advantages for USB-C over Lightning, Apple is likely to stick with its own protocol for the foreseeable future. AppleInsider takes a closer look at some of the factors behind retention of Lightning, as well as areas where it has a leg up on USB-C.

For more reviews, news, tips, features and more, subscribe to AppleInsider on YouTube. The article that the video was based on was published on May 7.

We're also interested in your questions about what we expect from the "iPhone 8," Lightning, USB-C, Thunderbolt 3, and even the old 30-pin connector! Chime in on our forums, and we'll address it.

Watch the Latest from AppleInsider TV

43 Comments

Soli 10 Years · 9981 comments

Why would anyone think Apple would get rid of Lightning?

5 Likes · 0 Dislikes
indieshack 10 Years · 336 comments

Soli said:
Why would anyone think Apple would get rid of Lightning?

Because lightning connectors fail badly over time, USB-C is MUCH more resilient - of course Apple won't change that since it makes a bucket of cash licensing lightning connectors. {{...and cue Apple fanboys...}}

1 Like · 0 Dislikes
Soli 10 Years · 9981 comments

Soli said:
Why would anyone think Apple would get rid of Lightning?
Because lightning connectors fail badly over time, USB-C is MUCH more resilient

Even if that was true, why would that be a reason you'd think Apple would get rid of Lightning, not just a reason you want Apple to get rid of Lightning?

6 Likes · 0 Dislikes
cpsro 15 Years · 3266 comments

Looking at a blow-up picture of the USB-C 3.1 female port, it looks significantly more vulnerable to getting clogged with dirt/lint/gunk than does Lightning. Plus the female USB-C 3.1 port has a tongue (clitoris?) in the middle that might be easily damaged or broken off, thus rendering the device in an irreversibly nonfunctional state as mentioned in the video. This might not be such an issue for a MacBook Pro as it could be for a smartphone that's frequently stashed in a pocket or purse.
http://www.usb-c-31.com/images/345dip-products.png

5 Likes · 0 Dislikes
sflocal 17 Years · 6156 comments

Soli said:
Why would anyone think Apple would get rid of Lightning?
Because lightning connectors fail badly over time, USB-C is MUCH more resilient - of course Apple won't change that since it makes a bucket of cash licensing lightning connectors. {{...and cue Apple fanboys...}}

Quit making stuff up.  USB-C is still in its infancy and is only now being implemented sparingly on Windows PC's.  Therefore you have ZERO clue how durable USBc is in the long run.

iHaters just like you only prove the status quo.  Come back when you reach adulthood.

10 Likes · 0 Dislikes