Apple Takes the Big Step: Shift to USB-C and Challenges in China
It is expected that in a few days, Apple will present its iPhone 15, marking Possibly one of the most significant changes in the design of the device since its launch. The iPhone 15 could say goodbye to the traditional Lightning charger and adopt USB-C. This transformation would not only facilitate The process of charging between different devices, but it would also be a response to recent European Union legislation, which requires the USB-C support on various electronic devices by 2024.
Although the company has already adopted USB-C in other devices such as iPads and MacBooks, the iPhone had maintained its loyalty to the Lightning. The Apple's senior vice president of worldwide marketing, Greg Joswiak, has pointed out the importance of the Lightning charger but acknowledges the need to comply with EU law. The EU decision has its roots in reducing electronic waste, which may require Apple a program to recycle Lightning cables.
The economic value of Lightning for Apple
Since its introduction in 2012 with the iPhone 5, the Lightning charger not only improved the charging experience, but also generated a business of accessories. David McQueen, director of ABI Research, noted that Apple He made great profits from the sale of these accessories, in addition to earnings from third-party accessories through their Made For iPhone program.
A video closer to USB C Braided cables for iPhone 15 🤤 All new iPhones will have it. pic.twitter.com/Q3H8cr81PS
— Apple For Everyone (@AppleParaTodos_) September 8, 2023
The shift to USB-C, being a more open ecosystem, could challenge this control. However, Apple is likely to develop a USB-C cable of its own, Optimized for your devices.
Although the change may seem large, it is likely that the direct impact for the consumer is minimal. Given the prevalence of USB-C in the market, Users are already familiar with it. Ben Wood of CCS Insight suggests that this change is beneficial in the long term, offering clear advantages such as standardization.
Apple in China: Emerging Challenges
As Apple moves forward with its innovations, it faces challenges in the Chinese market. The company's shares experienced a significant drop following reports of possible bans of iPhones in entities backed by the Chinese government. Since China represents one-fifth of Apple's total revenue, any Restriction in this market is crucial.
So far, Apple has had a favorable relationship with the Chinese government, but these recent reports suggest a possible shift in Beijing's stance toward the company.
Here are the main differences between iPhone 14 Pro and iPhone 15 Pro 🤔 pic.twitter.com/CvCyvLOrLH
— Apple For Everyone (@AppleParaTodos_) August 29, 2023
The picture in China is further complicated by the introduction of Huawei's new smartphone, a direct competitor of Apple in the market. The Analysts watch with interest the timing of these decisions, right after of the launch of the new Huawei device.
Apple is in a moment of transition and adaptation, both in terms of design and technology as in its positioning in key markets. Bee Interesting to note how the company navigates these challenges in the coming year.
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