Apple has taken a significant step by pulling its iPhone SE (3rd generation) and the iPhone 14 Series from its retail and online stores across the European Union (EU). This decision comes after the recent enforcement of the EU’s new legislation mandating all smartphones sold in the region to feature a USB-C port. The legislation aims to reduce e-waste and ensure consistency in charging ports for consumer convenience.
What Led to Apple’s Decision?
The new rule, effective from December 28, requires all smartphones, tablets, cameras, and other electronic devices sold within the EU to have the same charging port, i.e., USB-C. The EU’s regulation was created with the goal of minimizing electronic waste and simplifying the charging process across devices. The iPhone 15 series was Apple’s first line of iPhones equipped with a USB-C port, aligning with the new EU rules.
Previously, Apple continued to sell the iPhone 14 series and the iPhone SE (3rd generation), which were both equipped with Apple’s proprietary lightning port. However, with the new legislation in place, these models are no longer available for sale in the EU’s online market. Third-party resellers can still sell these models while stocks last.
Impact of the USB-C Legislation
This change does not impact only smartphones. It covers a range of electronic devices. With the new regulation, Apple has had to phase out the lightning port from its products, including iPads, AirPods, and AirPods Max, which now all feature USB-C ports. The table below summarizes the key devices affected by this legislation and their current status.
Devices Affected by USB-C Legislation
| Device | Charging Port | Availability in the EU |
|---|---|---|
| iPhone 14 Series | Lightning | No longer available |
| iPhone SE (3rd generation) | Lightning | No longer available |
| iPhone 15 Series | USB-C | Available |
| iPads (Newer Models) | USB-C | Available |
| AirPods (Newer Models) | USB-C | Available |
| AirPods Max | USB-C | Available |
Countries Affected by the Regulation
The rule applies to all EU countries, and Northern Ireland, which is still part of the EU’s single market. Notably, the United Kingdom is excluded due to its exit from the EU in 2020. However, Apple can continue to sell the iPhone SE and iPhone 14 series outside the EU, including in significant markets like the United States, India, and China.
Future of iPhone SE
Apple fans who are disappointed by the withdrawal of the iPhone SE may not have to wait long for its return. Reports suggest that Apple is planning to release the iPhone SE (4th generation) in early 2025. The new iPhone SE model is expected to feature USB-C compliance and additional design changes. Furthermore, it is speculated to include support for Apple Intelligence, which will make it a much-anticipated upgrade.
Conclusion
Apple’s decision to pull the iPhone SE (3rd generation) and the iPhone 14 Series from the EU’s online market is a direct result of the USB-C regulation enforced by the EU. While this move supports environmental sustainability and user convenience, it also sets a potential precedent for the global adoption of USB-C as the standard for charging ports. Though the iPhone SE and iPhone 14 series are no longer available in the EU, Apple continues to offer these devices in other regions, and fans can look forward to the upcoming iPhone SE (4th generation), which is expected to launch in 2025.
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