Apple to End Sales of iPhone 14 and iPhone SE in Europe Due to USB-C Mandate

Apple is preparing to phase out the iPhone 14, iPhone 14 Plus, and the third-generation iPhone SE in Europe by the end of 2024. The move comes in response to the European Union’s USB-C charging port mandate, which requires all smartphones sold in the region to adopt the standardized port.

The legislation passed in 2022, aims to reduce electronic waste, simplify device compatibility, and promote a universal charging standard. It mandates that all mobile phones, tablets, and cameras sold in the EU must feature USB-C ports for wired charging by December 28, 2024.

Apple, known for its proprietary Lightning connector, began transitioning to USB-C with the launch of the iPhone 15 series in 2023. The company has continued this trend with subsequent models, including the anticipated iPhone 16. However, older devices still equipped with Lightning ports, such as the iPhone 14 series and the iPhone SE (3rd Gen), will no longer meet compliance requirements.

To align with the new regulations, Apple will discontinue these models in the EU starting December 28, 2024. The phase-out may begin earlier in Switzerland, where similar regulations are in place, with reports suggesting a December 20 deadline. Once current stock is depleted, these devices will not be restocked in Apple’s online or retail stores across the region.

A New Era for Apple’s iPhone SE

The transition clears the way for the launch of the fourth-generation iPhone SE in 2025, which will feature a USB-C port. Reports hint that the upcoming model might also include advanced features such as the A18 chip and Apple Intelligence capabilities, though the company has yet to confirm these details.

A Broader Shift to USB-C

Apple’s adoption of USB-C aligns with a broader industry trend, following competitors like Samsung, which standardized USB-C across its devices years ago. In addition to the iPhone lineup, other Lightning-based Apple products, such as older Magic Keyboards, are also expected to be phased out in the EU.

For consumers, the shift to USB-C promises a simplified experience with fewer cables and a move toward universal charging solutions. It also demonstrates Apple’s compliance with global regulatory trends and its effort to remain competitive in a changing market.

While Apple has not disclosed its plans for older Lightning devices outside Europe, the company’s move in the EU could signal a gradual global phase-out of Lightning-equipped products in favor of a fully USB-C ecosystem.