The EU has warned Apple about possible restrictions on the functionality of non-certified USB-C cables

We have already shared with you rumors according to which Apple may limit charging and data transfer speeds when using non-certified USB-C cables with new iPhones. As with the current models with Lightning, the smartphones will be equipped with a chip for accessories authentication.

In response to these rumors, European Commissioner Thierry Breton sent Apple a letter warning the company that limiting the functionality of USB-C cables would not be allowed, a move that would ban iPhone sales in the EU when law on uniform standard for charging devices enters into force. It also became known that the EU had already warned Apple about this during a meeting in mid-March.

Given that the law will come into force only at the end of 2024, Apple can equip not only the iPhone 15 line, but also the iPhone 16, which is expected to be announced in September next year, with a chip for accessories authentication. However, it’s also worth noting that iPads with USB-C ports don’t have this chip, so it’s unclear whether we’ll see them in the new iPhones.

The EU intends to publish guidance to ensure a “uniform interpretation” of the legislation by the third quarter of this year.