Apple will reportedly stick with the proprietary Lightning connector on its next-generation iPhone instead of shifting to the widely used USB-C interface according to one tech leaker.
Fudge said it was a shame that the USB-C prototype iPhone 12s weren’t making it into production. Instead, we are destined for at least one more year of the Lightning connector. The leaker added that starting with next year’s models, Apple will move to a port-free design featuring a smart connector.
Apple reportedly hasn’t started developing this model yet but according to the leaker, the intended way to charge the iPhone 13 will be through traditional wireless charging.
Apple deployed its Lightning connector starting with the iPhone 5. While much smaller and reversible, many enthusiasts were upset with the change as it meant their 30-pin connector accessories were no longer compatible with newer handsets.
The Lightning connector has been on every iPhone released since 2012 but we’ve increasingly heard rumors about Apple’s desire to move to a portless design. If Fudge proves accurate, that’ll happen in 2021.