In September 2024, Apple unveiled its new Apple iPhone 16 models, marking the end of the Apple iPhone 13 era. With the introduction of the latest models, Apple decided to stop selling the 2021 Apple iPhone 13, leaving customers with a more limited selection of devices directly available from the Apple Store. The models still available are the Apple iPhone SE 3 (2022), iPhone 14 (2022), iPhone 14 Plus (2022), iPhone 15 (2023), iPhone 15 Plus (2023), and the of course the Apple iPhone 16 series.
However, with the USB-C directive taking effect on 28 December 28. Apple is expected to discontinue all Apple iPhone models that still feature the lightning port. This change is driven by EU legislation, which mandates that all chargable smaller electronic devices, like smartphones and tablets, in the region use a universal USB-C charging port. As it stands, models such as the Apple iPhone 14, iPhone 14 Plus, and iPhone SE 3 (the third-generation SE model) are still using the older Lightning connector and will not comply with the new European rule.
Lightning port Apple iPhones to be discontinued in Europe
The move to discontinue the iPhone models with a lightning connector in Europe aligns with the European Union's ongoing efforts to standardize charging ports for electronic devices. Starting end of 2024, any phone sold in Europe must have a USB-C port, making the lightning connector obsolete for new releases. The Apple iPhone 14, iPhone 14 Plus, and iPhone SE 3 will be the last models to feature lightning connectors in the region.
Although Apple could theoretically update these devices with a USB-C port—similar to how it updated the AirPods Max—there is little indication that the company will pursue this strategy. With the iPhone 17 series expected to launch in 2025, the iPhone 14 and iPhone 14 Plus will likely be phased out, making way for more compliant models.
Current accessories with lightning port
Apple continues to offer several products that still use the lightning connector for charging. These include Magic Keyboard, Magic Mouse, Magic Trackpad, and the first-generation Apple Pencil. Despite the upcoming changes in Europe, Apple’s lightning-equipped products remain available for purchase globally until new models are introduced.
Apple iPhone SE 4
In addition to the iPhone 17 series, Apple is expected to release the iPhone SE 4 in early 2025. The new Apple iPhone SE is rumored to feature a design similar to the Apple iPhone 14, complete with a single camera, the latest A18 processor, and Apple's 5G modem. This update is set to replace the current iPhone SE 3, which will be discontinued as part of Apple's product refresh cycle and seen as a potential refurbished killer.
iPhones with Lightning port still available outside Europe
For customers outside of Europe, there is no immediate concern. Apple will continue to sell iPhone models with the Lightning port, including the iPhone 14, iPhone 14 Plus, and iPhone SE 3, until they are replaced by new models. Those in markets where the USB-C regulation does not apply will still be able to purchase these devices.
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