Apple has just shared some statements and the media about whether Europe could force mobile devices to have a single charging port. Since the Lightning connector used by many Apple products is its own way, this measure can be replaced by another connector. In this case, the USB-C port.
Apple's statement: a measure that discourages innovation, consumers and the economy
Apple defends innovation and is very concerned with the user experience. We believe that the law that governs the use of connected devices across smartphones creates creative innovation instead of favoring it, and could harm consumers in Europe and the rest of the economy.
More than $ 1 billion Apple devices have been sold using the Lightning connector, in addition to the complete range of accessories and equipment manufacturers that use Lightning to help our customers. This law will have a direct and negative impact affecting the millions of active devices and accessories used by our European customers, and many Apple customers around the world, generating unprecedented amounts of electrical pollution and widespread disruption to users.
We do not believe there is a case for regulation (intervention) because the industry is already moving towards using USB-C through a connector or cable. This includes the Apple USB-C network adapter, which is compatible with all iPhone and iPad. This method is convenient for customers, allows charging with various electronic devices, encourages people to reuse their charger and allow for new design.
Prior to 2009, the Commission was considering the need for all smartphones using only USB Micro-B connectors that would have blocked Lightning and USB-C connectivity. Instead, the Commission has developed an industry-based voluntary system that allows the market change from only 30 to 3 chargers, which will be in the near future (Lightning and USB-C), indicating that this approach is working.
We hope that the Commission will continue to seek a solution that does not hinder the ability of the composing industry to introduce new technologies to customers.
The standard charger "would do more damage than it would take advantage"
Apple has hired an economic analyst company to study the impact of this measure in Europe. Under the name of Copenhagen Economics, it specializes in economic and political analysis. In their analysis (here the full study) states that customers are more likely to be hurt than the profit made to them both by nature.
The evidence we found is clear. The damage to the consumer due to the control of a single connector (1,500 million euros) is far greater than any environmental benefit (13 million euros). On this basis, given the extent to which consumer benefits are assessed policy, it is unlikely that the standard Charger process that forced one connector has a positive social and economic impact.
