According to Apple leak resource Unknownz21, Apple created a version with a Lightning port early in the iPhone 15 development process. In a tweet, Unknownz21 revealed that Apple was testing an “iPhone 15” with a Lightning port “very early”, but “quickly shelved” in favor of a USB-C version.

“iPhone 15” models equipped with USB-C instead of Lightning were tested as early as January 2022, with all development after March 2022 focused on the USB-C port. Apple’s move to USB-C in the iPhone has been one of the most consistent rumors, and the company is expected to abandon the Lightning port for all four models this year. Both the Pro and standard models will similarly charge via USB-C instead of Lightning, a first for an “iPhone”.

Some details about USB-C on the iPhone 15: Tested in January 2022 and since March 2022 almost all designs have a USB-C port instead of Lightning. There was a version with a Lightning port very early on, but it was quickly canceled. — Unknownz21 🌈 (@URedditor) April 18, 2023

USB-C ports have been included in the Mac lineup since 2015 and the iPad lineup since 2018. In fact, all iPads Apple sells have a USB-C port, so iPhones are the only iOS devices that continue to use Lightning. Apple plans to switch to USB-C for the “iPhone” due to European regulations requiring a common charger for electronic devices.

Under these rules, the Lightning port was banned, so Apple had the option to introduce USB-C only in Europe and stick with Lightning everywhere, or use USB-C worldwide and abandon Lightning altogether. . iPhones, iPads and Macs will be able to use the same cable and power adapter, making USB-C charging on all Apple devices easy.

Eventually, Apple will have to update the third-generation AirPods, AirPods Pro 2, AirPods Max, Magic Mouse, Magic Trackpad, Magic Keyboard and the original Apple Pencil, all devices that continue to charge with Lightning.

Apple may not be relying on USB-C charging for much longer, as the company pushes MagSafe wireless charging. iPhones starting with the iPhone 12 use “MagSafe” and Apple may be planning to add similar technology to future “iPad” models. Apple’s ultimate goal is said to be a portless, all-screen iPhone, and it could be possible at some point with the ‌MagSafe‌ and upcoming Qi2 launch. The Qi2 standard will provide faster charging speeds like MagSafe and will be a more open alternative to ‌MagSafe‌.