Apple is preparing to remove several iPhone models from its European catalog. In question, the approach of the deadline for compliance with the new European regulations.
According to information reported by iGenerationthe third generation iPhone SE as well as the iPhone 14 and 14 Plus will no longer be sold in the European Union by the end of the year. This decision is part of the new European regulations on the universal charger, which will come into force in January 2025. These models, equipped with Apple’s proprietary Lightning port, do not comply with the directive requiring USB- C for universal charging standard.
Faced with this situation, Apple had two options: develop new versions of these devices with a USB-C port or cease their marketing. The Cupertino giant opted for the second solution, simply choosing to stop the sale of these models a little earlier than initially planned.
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This transition should not, however, create a void in the Apple range. Spring 2025 will see the arrival of a fourth generation iPhone SE, naturally equipped with a USB-C port. This new model should also be inspired by the design of the iPhone 14with an edge-to-edge display, an improved camera and, of course, USB-C charging.
Under normal circumstances, the iPhone 14 and 14 Plus would have continued to be sold in the EU until the iPhone 17 arrives next fall. Apple therefore loses around a year of potential sales for these models on the European market.
It is interesting to note that this situation only concerns the European Union. Outside of these borders, Apple will continue to sell the iPhone SE until the arrival of its successor, and the iPhone 14 until the end of 2025. This date will definitively mark the end of the era of the Lightning port on Apple devices, thus closing an important chapter in the history of the brand since its introduction in 2012.
