The rumors that have been spreading in recent weeks that Apple could restrict certain functions and fast data rates to specially licensed USB-C cables seem to be giving the EU Commission in Brussels a headache. Under the guise of the “Made for iPhone” (MFi) program, Cupertino – like the Lightning standard – is not only supposed to earn money, but also to introduce additional restrictions on unlicensed cables.
With the introduction of the iPhone 15 (Pro), Apple could, for example, reduce the data rates to USB 2.0 level, reduce the charging speed or limit the connection of accessories. EU Commissioner Thierry Breton sees such a step as a violation of the EU directive for uniform chargers, which will come into effect on December 28, 2024.
“Devices that do not meet the requirements for the uniform charger will not be approved on the EU market,” said Breton in a letter sent to the German Press Agency (dpa, via hot) exists. A first warning to Apple not to even look for possible loopholes in order to possibly evade the EU rules.
New guide against loopholes
This is exactly what Anna Cavazzini, Chairwoman of the Internal Market Committee in the EU Parliament, accused the US company of. Accordingly, by the third quarter of 2023, a “uniform interpretation of the legal provisions” should ensure that Apple is subject to the EU guidelines and is therefore no longer opposed to the harmonization of cable and power supply standards.
Aside from accusations and warnings, however, Apple has a free hand for this year’s iPhone 15 generation. After all, the EU directive will only take effect on December 28, 2024 and will apply to newly produced devices from then on. Apple could also strive for a hardware-based restriction of the USB-C connection instead of cable licensing and initially only allow more expensive iPhone 15 Pro models to take advantage of USB-C 3.2+, Thunderbolt and Co.
- EU fears that Apple may exploit possible cable certifications.
- EU warns Apple of restrictions on unlicensed cables.
- EU Commissioner Breton threatens not to be admitted to the EU market.
- EU Parliament calls for uniform interpretation of legal provisions.
- Apple has a free hand until Dec. 2024.
- EU directive only applies to new devices from December 2024.
- Apple may allow more expensive models to take advantage of USB-C.
See also:
Smartphone, Iphone 15, Apple Iphone 15
