Apple is preparing to release the iPhone 15 later this year, including an ecosystem of accessories that will accompany the new phones. One of the most important of these will be the official 20W USB-C charger. The analyst said that Apple is expecting a surge in demand because the iPhone 15 won’t be able to fast charge without it.
Ming-Chi Kuo, one of Apple’s most widely read analysts, published a short article on Medium today discussing Apple’s expected switch from Lightning to USB-C ports on its smartphones in late 2023 and its impact on accessory sales. Apple is “optimistic about the strong demand for replacement 20W USB-C chargers following the transition to USB-C for the iPhone 15 series,” he said.
As usual, Kuo is focusing on the supply chain, identifying LY iTech as the main beneficiary of the move, but there are many implications for consumers. The reason Kuo expects Apple to make and sell many more 20W chargers is a potential annoyance for those who buy phones: “I believe Apple is optimizing the fast-charging performance of MFi-certified chargers for the iPhone.” 15,” he writes euphemistically. The “optimization” he’s talking about means that Apple will block this important new iPhone feature so that it only works properly when connected to an officially sanctioned MFi-certified (or Made For iPhone) charger.
As annoying as it is, it wouldn’t be completely unexpected. The MFi program is a minor but reliable source of passive income for Apple, and it loves to nudge customers towards officially sanctioned accessories. Chargers without MFi certification are likely to be cheaper than the official versions, but Apple wants us to believe they are less reliable and efficient and even dangerous to use; in this case it looks like it will be true.
It’s worth noting that the 20W power adapter isn’t a new product: Apple is selling it right now for $19 in the US and £19 in the UK for charging Lightning and USB-C devices. (It doesn’t come with a cable, so you just provide the right one for your device.) Those who already have one of these will be ready when they buy the iPhone 15, which probably won’t come with a power bank. adapter, but many more iPhone owners make do with low-powered or unofficial chargers and will need an upgrade to take advantage of the new phone’s fast charging feature.
For all the latest news and rumors about upcoming Apple phones, check out our regularly updated iPhone 15 super guide.