For years, Apple users and tech enthusiasts have been eagerly anticipating Apple’s transition to USB-C. The convenience and versatility of this universal port have made it a popular choice among other tech companies. However, Apple’s progress in embracing USB-C has been slow, to say the least. According to Mark Gurman’s Power On newsletter for Bloomberg, it is projected that Apple will complete its transition to USB-C by 2025. While this news brings excitement to some, it is also met with a fair amount of skepticism.
To understand the timeline and potential challenges Apple may face in transitioning to USB-C, it is worth reflecting on their previous transition to Lightning. When Apple introduced the iPhone 5 in 2012, it marked the beginning of the end for the 30-pin port. While the 30-pin port was retired a little over a month later with the release of the fourth-gen iPad, Apple continued to support the older form factor with the iPod Classic, which was discontinued in 2014. This transition took either a little over a month or about two years, depending on how you interpret it.
Apple’s transition to USB-C may not be as straightforward as some would hope. As Gurman notes, the company’s release of USB-C versions of the MagSafe Battery Pack and the MagSafe Duo is highly anticipated but not guaranteed in the near future. Apple has been known to take its time in phasing out older technologies and gradually introducing new ones, so it is no surprise that Gurman advises us not to hold our breath for these releases.
Despite the expected delays, Gurman shares some exciting insights into Apple’s future product lineup. He mentions the possibility of a new iMac launching next month, which will come with USB-C “Magic” accessories like a mouse and keyboard. Additionally, Gurman predicts the release of new non-Pro and Max AirPods with USB-C. If these predictions hold true, it would mean that Apple is slowly but surely moving away from Lightning and embracing the universal USB-C port.
While Apple’s transition to USB-C seems inevitable, there are still a few first-party products that continue to rely on Lightning. The first-generation Apple Pencil and the iPhone SE are two notable examples. These products serve as a reminder that Apple’s transition will be gradual and that the company will likely continue to support Lightning for some time.
Apple’s transition to USB-C is an ongoing process that requires careful planning and execution. While users eagerly await the convenience and compatibility of USB-C devices, it is important to manage our expectations and understand the challenges that lie ahead. Apple has a history of transitioning at their own pace, often phasing out older technologies while still supporting them for a period of time. As the tech industry evolves and USB-C becomes more prevalent, Apple will eventually have to fully commit to this universal standard. Only time will tell when that day will come, but for now, users can look forward to the gradual integration of USB-C into Apple’s product lineup.
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