Rumor: 'iPhone 12' to integrate Lightning instead of USB-C, port-less iPhone coming in 2021

A reliable leaker on Monday claimed the upcoming "iPhone 12" will retain Apple's Lightning connector over a USB-C option, adding that next year's flagship is expected to boast a Smart Connector with no ports at all.

Though some speculate Apple to make the move to USB-C, the proprietary Lightning port will be a part of iPhone for at least another year, according to Twitter user @choco_bit. The statement corroborates leaker Jon Prosser's previous comments about the "iPhone 12" port.

Today's tweet also mentions the 2021 iPhone, possibly called the "iPhone 13," which hasn't seen much in the way of rumors.

Shame the USB-c prototype iPhone 12's arent making it to production. 1 more year of lightning

Oh well, at least smart connector on 13 series
— Fudge (@choco_bit) May 25, 2020

The idea of an iPhone with a Smart Connector isn't new either, with identical rumors surfacing prior to the launch of iPhone 8. Choco_bit goes on to clarify in a reply that the "13 series" will in fact be port-less, which is another sentiment shared by Prosser and other insiders.

The Twitter user shared "iPhone 12" leaks before, including claims of a the three-camera system with LiDAR expected on pro models, smaller notch and widgets on the home screen.

We won't be able to confirm the validity of the leaks until Apple announces the new iPhones in September or October.

30 Comments

k2kw 2079 comments · 11 Years

About 4 years ago

I hope they keep the lightning connector as I have at least 20 cables for it, but it would be great if Apple made a battery case with a lightning port, USB3-Type C port, and a headphone jack. Keep the camera button on the current battery case. Now they just need to fit a forehead temperature scanner in the regular phone and TouchID on screen.

chasm 3620 comments · 10 Years

It’s plausible. Lightning remains a versatile and compact port, but I wouldn’t be sad to see USB-C on the most expensive iPhones. After all, they have “Pro” right in the name.

That said, a portless iPhone is obviously the goal, and if the smart connector can be further developed in the next year or so, that’s the obvious candidate.

GeorgeBMac 11421 comments · 8 Years

No ports is a great idea, but:

Don't all but the most recent CarPlay setups require a wired connection?

If so, how would that work? Would Apple require everybody to upgrade their CarPlay systems? Since most are proprietory to the OEM, that could get expensive.

macca 27 comments · 13 Years

GeorgeBMac said:

No ports is a great idea, but:
Don't all but the most recent CarPlay setups require a wired connection?

If so, how would that work? Would Apple require everybody to upgrade their CarPlay systems? Since most are proprietory to the OEM, that could get expensive.

No it’s not. At the moment when I’m travelling if I’m low on power I attach the lightening cable from the battery pack in my bag to the phone whilst using it for directions at the same time as charging. How are you meant to do this without a port? Or when I’m on a flight transferring movie flies from my computer onto the phone?