Apple's iPhone 15: USB-C Port Compatibility and Safety Concerns

Intan Rakhmayanti Dewi, CNBC Indonesia

Tech

Thursday, 09/28/2023 08:00 WIB

Jakarta, CNBC Indonesia – Apple recently launched the iPhone 15 lineup, which marked a significant turning point in the smartphone world.

Among the many changes and innovations, the introduction of the USB-C port as a universal connector steals the show.

The change was seen as a step forward in terms of compatibility and convenience, but it also raised questions and sparked debate about its implications.

The USB-C port, a feature long known to Android users, now takes center stage on Apple’s latest flagship model, replacing the traditional Lightning connector.

This change initially received mixed reactions. Because many Apple loyalists are familiar with the Lightning port and its compatibility with a wide variety of accessories.

However, when the iPhone 15 and iPhone 15 Pro just started to be marketed, consumers had the opportunity to experience the benefits firsthand, and received a very positive response.

As with any major technology transition, there are some bumps in the road. Recent reports from China, one of Apple’s largest markets, highlight the concerns raised by some authorized Apple stores.

Quoting Gizchina, these shops advise customers not to use Android cables to charge their new iPhone 15 and iPhone 15 Pro, on the grounds that they will overheat during the charging process.

The recommendation not to use Android cables on Apple’s latest models has raised several questions and sparked debate about what the motivation is behind this advice.

Is this a concern for user safety and the health of the new iPhones, or is this a strategic move to protect Apple’s market share, especially in a region known for the spread of counterfeit components?

What makes this problem even more confusing is the absence of an official statement from Apple itself.

The recommendation against “Android cables” appears to be the stance taken by some official stores in China.

But, the lack of clarity from the American tech giant has left room for speculation and debate about the real reasons behind this position.

One possible explanation for this recommendation is a subtle but important difference in cable construction between Android and Apple manufacturers.

Not all USB-C cables are created equal, and variations in connection pin alignment and arrangement of certain elements can affect the amount of heat generated during charging.

For this reason, consumers must be aware of the potential safety risks associated with using a USB-C cable with the iPhone 15.

If you’re worried about overheating, we recommend using an Apple-certified USB-C cable. However, if the budget is limited, there are many high-quality third-party USB-C cables available.

One tip for choosing a safe USB-C cable is to look for a cable that is certified by USB-IF. This means that the cable has gone through testing and meets the USB-C standard.

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