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Apple's new iPhone 15 and iPhone 15 Pro have a USB-C port, but that port's capabilities vary by model. Here's what you need to know Need to know.
Apple has finally switched from Lightning to USB-C with the iPhone 15 line. For better or worse, this universal port allows users to switch to the new cable standard, but there are many nuances to how USB-C and available specs
iPhone 15 and iPhone 15 Plus feature USB 2.0 Type-C ports that support data transfer speeds of 480 Mbps iPhone 15 Pro and iPhone 15 Pro Max feature USB 3.2 Gen 2 Type-C ports C at 10Gbps All models continue to charge quickly using USB PD adapters at 20W or higher (up to 27W).
This means that regular iPhone users won't see much change in functionality between Lightning and USB-C. The port has a different shape, but its functions are almost identical.
USB 3.3 Gen 2 will bring significant benefits to professional models due to higher data transfer speeds. For example, this port can record ProRes 4K 60Hz video directly to an external SSD.
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USB-C cables and device charging
Almost anything with a USB-C connector will be able to communicate in some way with iPhone 15 line. There is no MFi program, so official Apple certification is not required for this generation of accessories.
Apple included a cable, but it only supports USB 2.0 speeds, which is the same speed as the cables that come with Macs, iPads, and older iPhones. Anyone who wants to do more than just charge their iPhone will need to purchase a separate cable.
Of course, Apple is contributing some nickel and diming by choosing these slower cables, but data cables also require more shielding and are thicker. For charging purposes, thinner cables may be preferable.
Users can also turn their iPhones into makeshift USB-C power banks, with a few exceptions. It only puts out 4.5W, and if you connect an iPhone 15 to another iPhone 15, the one with the smaller battery will receive charge from the other device.
Charge a friend's Android device from an iPhone
This works with Android devices as well, provided the phone supports USB Power Delivery. Since older iPhones with Lightning do not support USB PD output, they will always charge from the iPhone 15, regardless of which has a higher battery percentage.
Apple introduced this feature as a way to add fast charging to a set of AirPods or Apple Watch. The 4.5W power is incredibly slow, but it's enough to charge a small accessory for a few hours of extra use.
USB-C accessories that work with iPhone 15
There's now a huge new market for accessories that can work with the iPhone 15 and iPhone 15 Pro. Most USB-C accessories you already have may be supported.
Connect various accessories, such as cameras, via USB-C
For example, you can connect cameras to capture video footage, microphones to capture better audio, wired game controllers, displays, storage devices, wired headphones, CarPlay cars, Ethernet adapters, and memory card readers, to name a few.
Displays seem to be a particularly reasonable object of interest. Many displays can be connected directly via USB-C.
When connected via USB-C, 4K displays at 60 Hz are supported. They also support Dolby Vision and HDR.
Connect to your display using a USB-C adapter or cable
USB-C to HDMI adapters now work with iPhones and support the same resolutions as previous ones are purely Type-C. This is perfect for the TV in your living room.
Unfortunately, Apple does not yet have reliable support for an external display on the iPhone. You can mirror your iPhone or view videos and photos only on this external display, unlike the iPad, which has Stage Manager.
However, this makes the iPhone a capable gaming system, since you can connect it to a monitor and connect a wireless controller to it to get more of a console experience. Game developers also have the ability to set their own settings when connected to an external display.
USB-C on iPhone opens up a wealth of accessory possibilities.
Accessories such as keyboards, cameras, game controllers, and headphones can be connected via USB-C cable. C. We expect that gaming on an external display with a Bluetooth controller may become a popular option.
Even more
USB-C on iPhone is uncharted territory. While there are many apps and accessories already available, Apple's influence and size will ensure that even more apps enter the market.
Android devices have been using USB-C for a long time, but since accessory makers know that the money is made on the iPhone, many have focused on developing Lightning-focused products. The wider availability of USB-C is sure to provide buyers with more versatile options.
