The iPhone 14, iPhone 14 Plus, and third-generation iPhone SE are no longer available for purchase in most EU countries. This follows an EU directive requiring all mobile devices to adopt USB-C charging. These models, the last iPhones to use Lightning cables, have been pulled from online stores across Austria, Belgium, Denmark, Finland, France, Germany, Ireland, Italy, the Netherlands, Spain, Sweden, and other EU nations, as reported by MacRumors.
The bottom of an iPhone 14, showing its speaker grille and Lightning port.Image: The Lightning port on an iPhone 14.
While availability dwindled in physical stores last week, finding these models is now highly unlikely. The iPhone SE, also using the Lightning connector, has been removed as well. However, the anticipated iPhone SE 4, expected to launch soon, will likely feature USB-C. Interestingly, these iPhones remain available in the UK, which left the EU in 2020.
The EU’s USB-C Standardization
The European Union Parliament voted in October to standardize charging solutions across various devices. This mandate requires laptops, phones, tablets, and other gadgets to use USB-C, with the standard also applying to devices operating with 100W power delivery. Apple’s move comes just days before the year-end deadline.
Benefits of Standardized Charging
Parliament rapporteur Alex Agius Saliba celebrated the common charger becoming a reality in Europe. This standardization enhances consumer protection and convenience by eliminating the need for multiple chargers. By adopting USB-C, the EU aims to reduce electronic waste and simplify the user experience.
The Future of iPhone Charging
This discontinuation underscores Apple’s transition to USB-C. While older models are phased out, newer iPhones and the upcoming iPhone SE 4 will embrace the new standard. This shift aligns with the EU’s push for sustainability and interoperability. Consumers within the EU will now need to consider USB-C compatibility when purchasing older iPhone models.
