Apple-certified Lightning to USB-C cables should be available from select third-party accessory makers starting early next year.
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Last week, Apple informed members of its Made for iPhone or "MFi" licensing program that Lightning to USB-C cables for charging and syncing are now permitted to be manufactured. These cables require a new Lightning connector with part number C94, which Made for iPhone program members can now order.
Apple is selling the new Lightning connector to eligible hardware manufacturers for $2.88 per, and it is estimated to ship in six weeks, according to documentation shared with MacRumors by Hong Kong website ChargerLab.
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This means that third-party accessory makers enrolled in the Made for iPhone program, such as Anker, Aukey, Belkin, and Incipio, should have the part necessary to create MFi-certified Lightning to USB-C cables by mid-January and, allowing time for production, could be available to purchase by February or March.
A Lightning to USB-C cable is required to fast charge the iPhone 8 and newer with an 18W-plus power adapter. Otherwise, the new C94 connector is expected to provide a maximum of 15W of power with a standard power adapter.
Apple is currently the only retailer of certified Lightning to USB-C cables at a cost of $19 for the one-meter option and $35 for two-meters in the United States. The one-meter cable was originally $25, but it received a price cut in November 2016 alongside some of Apple's other USB-C adapters and cables.
The biggest advantage to third-party Lightning to USB-C cables is that many will likely be significantly less expensive than Apple's own, while still meeting Apple performance standards under the Made for iPhone program. Many third-party options will likely have more durable designs too, such as a braided cable.
Apple first informed its Made for iPhone program members about its plans to allow third-party Lightning to USB-C cables earlier this year.
Top Rated Comments
MacBook Pros have solely used USB-C ports for the last 2 years and you still need a dongle for these new $1000 iPhones because they ship with the old USB cable?
Apple makes me want to turn everything off and go to a beach.
Always love the tough talkin' can't stand the heat get out of the kitchen philosophy. If enough people complain about planned obsolescence, and it becomes a well known talking point that will affect sales, Apple will change.... Eventually.
Sometimes this helps me deal with Apple:In the meantime, get back on that saddle and hang on cowboy. More dongles are a comin'.
Old MacDONGLE had a farm
E-I-E-I-O
And on his farm he had a dongle
E-I-E-I-O
With a dongle here
And a dongle there
Here a dongle, there a dongle
Everywhere a freaking dongle
Old MacDonGLE had a farm
E-I-E-I-O
Try it, it's good therapy, but if you cannot get the song out of your head, don't blame me, blame the (Mac)dongles.
Edit: (CAD $)