Wesley Hilliard
Apple doesn't ship a charger with its iPhone anymore, and the iPhone 15 moving to USB-C with MFi requirements is expected to create high demand for compatible chargers.
Ever since the iPhone 12 in 2020, Apple hasn't included USB chargers in the product packaging. This controversial move caused many users to fall back on old chargers rather than upgrade to the new USB-C cables included in the box.
However, users may not have a choice in upgrading their charger when purchasing an iPhone 15. According to a report from Ming-Chi Kuo, Apple has increased orders for its 20W USB-C charger by 120% through the second and third quarter of 2023.
This reportedly comes from the company's optimism about strong replacement demand for 20W USB-C chargers. Customers won't be able to rely on their old Lightning cables or USB-A chargers with iPhone 15, so they could buy one or more chargers along with the device.
Kuo's note continues with an expected 30% to 40% year-over-year increase in 20W USB-C charger shipments. That would amount to 230 to 240 million units.
There are a number of third-party USB-C chargers on the market, and many customers may already have several. However, Apple's MFi certification process may reduce the functionality of any non-certified product.
iPhone 15USB-CApple20W USB-C / LY iTech is the primary beneficiary of the transition to USB-C for the iPhone 15 series and Apple's significant increase in 20W USB-C charger shipment estimationshttps://t.co/OpRcgorn9a
— (Ming-Chi Kuo) (@mingchikuo) March 21, 2023
According to Kuo, that MFi program would drive customers to choose Apple's 20W charger when buying iPhone 15 — even though there are many better options available from third-party accessory makers.
It isn't clear what the certification process will be for Apple's new USB-C MFi program. Depending on how it is implemented, existing third-party chargers may be limited to lower charging speeds and require a new purchase for maximum compatibility.
Amber Neely
Andrew Orr
William Gallagher
Christine McKee
AppleInsider Staff
Chip Loder
19 Comments
I prefer slow charging as I charge overnight and slow is better for the battery in the long run. I’ll keep my Anker charger brick.
When I upgrade I’ll have so many USB-A chargers and Lightning cables I need to throw away because they’ll be useless. See how forcing USB-C is reducing e-waste?!
So people actually think all these Anker, Belkin, Aukey, etc. USB-C chargers that people have and have been using to charge their iPhones at 18+ watts with USB-C to Lightning cables will suddenly become nerfed and charge at just 5w and/or 12w for the new phones? I’ve never heard such a ridiculous claim. This is not going to happen. I’d be willing to bet $10k the MFi restrictions everyone has their panties in a bunch over will turn out to be limited to accessories like adapter dongles and docks, etc, just like they are today. Apple may go the super shitty route and require MFi USB-C cables, but they’re not going to needlessly nerf millions of existing USB-C chargers.
Wife and I are set (though not upgrading this cycle), have 4 Apple USB-C cables with 20W chargers setup around our home for our iPad Pros. MagSafes on nightstands for iPhones.
Imagine a great many aren't ready for transition. No reason for Apple not to throw customers a bone and include at least a 2m cable in box (as 1m is a joke…only good for travel).
My plan is to get a few USB A to USB C cables instead. Less wasteful.