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Apple has officially pulled its remaining Lightning-based devices from the shelves in European stores, a move that brings the company into compliance with the EU’s common charging solution.
As of December 28th, 2024, all new electronic devices sold within the EU’s 27 member states are required to use a USB-C port for charging. This directive aims to reduce e-waste and eliminate market fragmentation by creating a standardized charging system.
In response to this regulation, Apple has removed its iPhone SE and iPhone 14 series from European stores, as these models still featured Lightning-based charging ports. The devices, including the iPhone 14 and 14 Plus, as well as the Lightning-based Magic Keyboard, are no longer available for purchase in countries such as the Netherlands, France, and Germany.
On the other hand, these same devices continue to be sold outside of Europe, where USB-C compatibility is not mandated by law. This move shows Apple’s willingness to comply with the EU’s regulations and adapt to new charging standards.
The directive also introduces new requirements for device labeling, allowing consumers better understanding of power requirements before making a purchase.
Source: www.theverge.com
