iPhone 15 with USB-C: Apple is said to be expecting a boost in sales for the USB-C power supply

by Dlek · 21 March 2023

Apple’s expected iPhone interface change could fuel demand for high-performance USB-C power adapters. In preparation, according to a report, Apple has already raised the production forecast for its own 20-watt power supply significantly: In the current second and subsequent third quarters, the company is now expecting deliveries to double, as the accurate analyst Ming-Chi Kuo reports. Around 70 million USB-C power adapters are to be delivered to Apple in the 2023 Christmas season alone.

Apple certification expected for USB-C accessories

Apple will “optimize” the iPhone 15’s fast-charging capabilities for chargers with its in-house Made for iPhone (MFi) certification, predicts Kuo, who appears to have deep insight into Apple’s supply chain. Earlier it was heard that Apple plans to certify USB-C cables for the iPhone 15. Fast charging of iPhones and Apple Watches is already only possible with an original cable from the manufacturer, but any USB-C power supply can be used as long as it is powerful and supports the common USB-PD (USB Power Delivery) specification.

The analyst estimates that Apple could sell around 230 to 240 million of its USB-C power adapters in 2023, significantly more than in the same period last year. Apple’s USB-C power supply with 20 watts costs 25 euros, and the manufacturer no longer has a cheaper power supply in its range. Since autumn 2020, Apple has no longer included a power supply unit with new iPhones. Previously, the vast majority of models only came with a weak 5-watt power adapter, which only charges iPhones slowly. Apple recommends a power adapter with at least 18 watts to use the iPhone fast charging function – an official USB-C to Lightning cable is also required.

Apple wants to comply with the EU’s USB-C specification

Apple had warned several times about a USB-C decree from the EU that this would lead to more electronic waste instead of less. Most recently, the company made it clear that it would “naturally” bow to the European specification for uniform charging technology for mobile devices. The switch from Lightning to USB-C has been expected for a long time, and other Apple devices such as Macs and iPads have long been using the interface.