USB-C becomes standard for new iPhones

Apple continues its policy of not including a power adapter in the boxes of newer iPhone models. Since the iPhone 15, the box contains a USB-C cable with two USB-C ends instead of the previous Lightning cable.

Compatibility with older adapters

Users with older USB-A adapters may need to replace them for compatibility with the new USB-C standard. For fast charging, a USB-C charger compatible with the Power Delivery (USB PD) standard is recommended.

Charging speeds vary by model

Apple specifies that a 20 W adapter is sufficient for charging an iPhone 17e or an iPhone Air to 50% in about 30 minutes. A 40 W or higher block is needed for an iPhone 17, 17 Pro, or 17 Pro Max to reach 50% in about 20 minutes.

Third-party options for charging

Anker offers a 20 W charging block at a lower price than Apple's, while Apple's 20 W power adapter is sold for 25 euros. Apple also sells a dynamic 40 W (up to 60 W peak) power adapter in France for 45 euros.

Cable options for charging

Apple includes a USB-C cable in the box, but users may want to invest in a higher-quality cable. Anker offers a 60 W USB-C to USB-C cable compatible with the Power Delivery standard, suitable for charging the iPhone, MacBook, and iPad.

High-speed data transfer cables

Apple's Thunderbolt 4 Pro cable can transmit up to 100 W and supports data transfer up to 40 Gbit/s, though no iPhone currently utilizes the full 40 Gbit/s capacity. The 1-meter version is priced at 79 euros, with a 3-meter version available for 179 euros.

Adapters for older accessories

For users with existing Lightning accessories, a USB-C to Lightning adapter is necessary. Apple's adapter supports charging, data transfer up to 480 Mbit/s, and audio, but is capped at 24 W during charging, significantly less than a USB-C cable directly connected to an iPhone 17.

Limitations of third-party adapters

Ugreen offers a Lightning to USB-C adapter, but it is only intended for audio and does not support charging. Apple's USB-C to Lightning adapter is available for 35 euros.

MagSafe remains compatible

The latest iPhones remain compatible with MagSafe, including the iPhone 18 Pro and the iPhone Duo. Existing MagSafe chargers can still be used, but the first Apple model is capped at 15 W, compared to 25 W for the current version.

Recommended power for MagSafe

Apple recommends a 30 W or higher power adapter for an iPhone 16 or 17 and 35 W or higher for an iPhone 18 Pro or iPhone Duo. Belkin offers its own version of the MagSafe charger, but it is capped at 15 W.

Wireless charging support

Wireless Qi charging is supported by iPhones since the iPhone 8, with Qi2 support introduced in the iPhone 15. Power increases up to 15 W on the iPhone 15 and up to 25 W on the iPhone 17, 18 Pro, and Duo with a certified Qi2 25 W charger.

Performance on classic Qi chargers

Performance on classic Qi chargers is capped at 7.5 W. Belkin's induction charger Boost Up reaches up to 7.5 W.

Case compatibility and charging efficiency

Cases for the new iPhone models vary due to differences in rear camera arrangements and dimensions. MagSafe-compatible cases are available in transparent, fine weave, and silicone materials.

Impact of case thickness on charging

Thin, non-metallic cases allow wireless charging with MagSafe and Qi2 chargers, while thick cases may reduce charging efficiency. A case with MagSafe magnets ensures good alignment on a MagSafe or Qi2 charger. Charging with a classic Qi charger is capped at 7.5 W, regardless of the case.