Apple iPhone 15 series is officially launched. As rumored, all four iPhone 15 models are equipped with USB-C ports, replacing the Lightning connector. After converting to USB-C, what functions will it have when used on the iPhone 15 series? What restrictions will there be? This article tells you.
Pro version performs better
The iPhone 15 series all have USB-C ports, but the iPhone 15 Pro and Pro Max have better performance and support faster data transfer speeds. These faster speeds are driven by the A17 Pro chip built into the phone, which has a Brand new controller. Since the iPhone 15 and iPhone 15 Plus use the previous generation A16 chip, they do not have this advantage. Otherwise, the USB-C ports on the four-port iPhone 15 models have the same functions. Below, I’ll explain everything you need to know.
Your old USB-C cable can charge your iPhone 15
iPhone 15 models come with a free braided USB-C cable, which is more durable than plastic cables. But you can also use any USB-C cable you already own. Apple’s official documents show that iPhone 15 supports wired charging speeds of up to 20W. In fact, if you use a charger, the charging speed should increase to 30W. At least, that’s the case with the iPhone 13 and 14 models. You can charge iPhone 15 from your Mac computer via USB-C, just like you use the Lightning port on recent iPhone models.
Use your iPhone to charge other devices
The introduction of USB-C means every iPhone 15 model can charge other devices. Apple initially only mentioned AirPods and Apple Watch in its iPhone 15 materials. Thanks to a new support document, we know you can use the iPhone 15 to power other “small devices” with up to 4.5W.
Transfer data at higher speeds with the right wires
If you want to take advantage of the iPhone 15 Pro’s faster charging speeds, you’ll need to buy a Thunderbolt cable. These cables have USB-C ports on both ends and can also charge iPhones. They’ll be more expensive than the traditional USB-C cables Apple ships with the iPhone 15.
If you need specific information when purchasing a new iPhone 15 Pro/Max USB-C cable, you can find it on the Support file on the Apple website. You’ll need a USB 3.2 Gen 2 (USB 3) cable to reach speeds up to 10 Gbps. If you have a Thunderbolt 4 cable or already have one, it will support USB 3 speeds. Thunderbolt has a Thunderbolt symbol on the line and that’s how you tell them apart. The default USB-C cable and other third-party cables will support data transfer speeds of up to 480 Mbps, just like the Lightning port. Thunderbolt USB-C will support speeds of up to 10 Gbps on the iPhone 15 Pro and 15 Pro Max.
Record videos directly to external storage
The USB-C port also allows you to connect an external SSD to your iPhone 15 Pro/Max and record video directly to it. If you use iPhone 15 Pro/Max to shoot videos and need more storage space. This feature supports video recording mode up to 4K 60fps and instantly transfers it to an external SSD. This feature also means you can move your ProRes video directly to your external storage while recording your video.
Play music via USB-C
Like the Lightning port, the iPhone 15’s USB-C port supports wired headphones and earbuds. Apple has launched a new EarPods model with a USB-C connector. In fact, you can use your current wired headphones as long as they have a USB-C connector or you have the right adapter.
Connect to a bigger screen
USB-C on the iPhone 15 and 15 Pro will allow you to connect your phone to your displays, monitors, and TVs. If these devices support USB-C connectivity, you just need to connect them with a compatible USB-C cable. You will then be able to mirror your iPhone 15 screen to share videos and photos. Or use your iPhone on a larger screen.
However, you may need different cables to connect your iPhone 15 to an external display. The phone supports the DisplayPort protocol for USB-C displays. This means you can get up to 4K resolution and a 60Hz refresh rate. You need a USB 3.1 or higher cable. Again, a Thunderbolt 4 cable will do the job. If your monitor or TV doesn’t have a USB-C port, you’ll need a USB-C to HDMI adapter. Make sure you get an adapter that supports HDMI 2.0 so you can get the same 4K resolution and 60Hz refresh rate support.
Connect other devices to iPhone
So far, I’ve mentioned computers (for data transfer and backup), external storage (for direct recording), and monitors (for iPhone mirroring). But USB-C will allow you to connect your iPhone to a variety of other third-party products. On the Apple website, Apple also lists CarPlay-enabled cars, microphones, external battery packs, USB-to-Ethernet adapters, and SD cards (via an adapter). For those devices that don’t have a USB-C connector natively, you may need an adapter.
Interference with wireless connections
One more thing Apple mentioned is an important detail about using third-party lines with the iPhone 15. They may interfere with wireless connections. Apple recommends using Thunderbolt 4 cable to minimize interference:. To prevent future interference, when you are finished using the accessory, disconnect it or try using a different cable, such as the Thunderbolt 4 (USB‑C) Pro Cable (1 meter), which is designed to minimize interference .
source:BGR
