Which iPhones have a USB-C port? All compatible models in 2026
by Vanessa Ricca, on Mar 12, 2026With the introduction of USB-C on iPhones in 2024, Apple has taken an important step towards a more universal charging and data-transfering standard. The connector is already widely used on other devices such as laptops, tablets and headphones, making it easier to charge multiple devices with a single cable. But which iPhones actually support USB-C? In this article, you’ll find a full overview of all compatible models and learn more about the advantages of the new connector.
iPhone 15 Pro with USB-C port - Photo by Onur Binay ©
Why Apple had to switch from Lightning to USB-C
“We all have at least three mobile phone chargers at home. Looking for the right charger, either at home or at work, can be quite annoying. On top of this, these chargers amount to 11,000 tonnes of e-waste every year. Having a charger that fits multiple devices will save money and time and also helps us reduce electronic waste.” - Jozef Síkela, European Commissioner for International Partnerships and ******former Minister for Industry and Trade
Apple’s move from the Lightning connector to USB-C is largely linked to new EU legislation. Since 2024, many electronic devices sold in the EU must use a USB-C charging port in order to create a common charging standard and reduce electronic waste.
Previously, Apple used its proprietary Lightning connector, introduced in 2012 and used only on Apple devices. This often meant needing different cables for different devices, which could be inconvenient for users.
By adopting USB-C, Apple aligns its iPhones with a universal standard already used on many MacBooks, iPads, and other devices. The result is greater convenience for users and an important step towards sustainability: using one cable for multiple devices helps reduce the production and disposal of unnecessary chargers.
Which iPhones are compatible with USB-C?
Apple has introduced USB-C across several iPhone generations. The following models support the new charging and data standard and can be charged using a USB-C cable.
- iPhone 15
- iPhone 15 Plus
- iPhone 15 Pro
- iPhone 15 Pro Max
- iPhone 16
- iPhone 16 Plus
- iPhone 16 Pro
- iPhone 16 Pro Max
- iPhone 16e
- iPhone 17
- iPhone 17 Air
- iPhone 17 Pro
- iPhone 17 Pro Max
- iPhone 17e
All of these models use USB-C instead of Lightning, offering improved compatibility with other devices, faster charging speeds and quicker data transfer.
What if your iPhone still has a Lightning port?
Even though newer iPhones now use USB-C, there’s no need to immediately replace an older iPhone which only works with a Lightning connector. Many earlier iPhone models still perform perfectly well and can easily be used for several more years. From a sustainability perspective, keeping your smartphone for longer is the best choice, as it reduces the need for producing new devices and lowers environmental impact. Lightning cables and accessories are still widely available, so older devices continue to work exactly as they always have.
Conclusion
The move to USB-C on iPhones is part of a broader **EU initiative to standardise charging ports and reduce electronic waste**. A common charging solution makes life easier for consumers and helps reduce the number of unused chargers that end up as waste.
Want to take sustainability one step further? Consider choosing a refurbished smartphone. Refurbishment extends the lifespan of electronics, save valuable resources and help reduce e-waste - without compromising on quality and performance. Find yours on refurbed Ireland.
