Starting today, Apple has officially stopped selling the iPhone 14, iPhone 14 Plus, and third-generation iPhone SE in most European Union countries. This decision comes in response to a new regulation requiring all smartphones with wired charging capabilities to feature USB-C ports.
A Regulation That Changes the Market
The EU’s new USB-C regulation goes into effect on December 28, 2024, and applies to any smartphone sold after that date, regardless of its release date. The move aims to standardize charging methods across devices, reduce electronic waste, and provide a more user-friendly charging experience for consumers.
While Apple’s iPhone 15 and iPhone 16 models already comply with the rule, featuring USB-C ports for wired charging, the iPhone 14, iPhone 14 Plus, and current iPhone SE still rely on Apple’s proprietary Lightning port.
Countries Affected
The removal of these iPhone models impacts most EU countries, including Austria, Belgium, Denmark, Finland, France, Germany, Ireland, Italy, the Netherlands, Spain, and Sweden, among others. Additionally, countries outside the EU but part of its single market, such as Switzerland, are also affected.
Interestingly, the regulation does not apply to the UK, which left the EU in 2020. However, Northern Ireland, as a participant in the EU’s single market, is subject to the new rule.
Phasing Out the Lightning Port
Apple began pulling the iPhone 14, iPhone 14 Plus, and third-generation iPhone SE from its online store in EU countries last week. Remaining inventory at Apple Stores and authorized resellers is expected to sell out quickly, making availability hit-or-miss over the next few days. For all practical purposes, these models are no longer part of Apple’s product lineup in the EU.
What’s Next for Apple in the EU?
Apple is expected to launch a fourth-generation iPhone SE with a USB-C port as early as March 2025. This updated model will ensure compliance with the new regulation and likely bring the popular SE line back to the EU market.
The discontinuation of the iPhone 14 and iPhone 14 Plus in the EU comes a bit earlier than expected. Under normal circumstances, Apple would have retired these models in September 2025 when its next-generation iPhones debut. However, the USB-C mandate accelerated their removal from the market by about nine months.
A Step Toward Standardization
The shift to USB-C is a significant milestone for Apple and its customers. The company has long relied on its proprietary Lightning port, but the new regulation forces a move toward standardization. For many consumers, this means fewer cables to manage and a more universal charging solution across devices.
The Bigger Picture
Apple’s decision underscores the growing influence of regulatory policies on consumer electronics. The EU’s USB-C mandate is one of the most significant changes in the tech industry in recent years, pushing manufacturers toward a more cohesive ecosystem.
As Apple adapts to this new landscape, the tech giant is also positioning itself to meet future regulatory challenges. The introduction of USB-C across its lineup signals a broader shift in Apple’s approach to compliance and innovation in global markets.
For now, EU customers looking to purchase an iPhone with the familiar Lightning port will have to act quickly or look toward Apple’s upcoming USB-C-equipped devices. Meanwhile, the rest of the world watches as Europe once again takes the lead in shaping the future of tech standards.
