Apple officially adopted USB Type-C with its latest range of iPhones - iPhone 15, iPhone 15 Plus, iPhone 15 Pro, and iPhone 15 Pro Max. With the iPhone 15 range launch, Apple finally ditched its Lightning Port, all thanks to the European Union. Now, all device makers selling smartphones and tablets in the bloc must come with a USB Type-C port in order to reduce e-waste, while making it more convenient for users with multiple devices.

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Why Apple's USB-C woes aren't over

The American tech giant might have adopted USB Type-C on its latest iPhone range but that doesn't mean its problems are over. India now wants to follow in EU's footsteps and make USB Type-C mandatory. While Android phones will remain unaffected as most of them already come with USB-C, Apple might face challenges in India.

Also read: Is Apple Reissuing Last Year's iPhone 14 Models With USB Type-C Port?

Even though iPhone 15 series comes with USB-C, India wants all devices made in the country to adopt USB Type-C after the law takes effect. Currently, Apple makes iPhone 14 and iPhone SE in India (among other devices) - these models come with a Lightning Port. When proposed regulations are enforced, Apple would have to upgrade the ports of these old devices to USB Type-C or stop producing these models in the country.

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How will Apple adjust to India's demands?

Recently, Apple has been investing heavily in India in order to limit the company's reliance on China. Production costs could go up for Apple in case old models need to be upgraded to USB-C. Currently, Apple makes iPhones in India as part of a scheme called PLI (production-linked incentives). By reaching the country's volume targets, Apple gets discounts in India

If Apple has to stop making older iPhones in India, it might not receive tax incentives. This means that the company would have to increase the price of models sold in India and elsewhere.

Also read: India To Standardise USB Type-C On All Electronics, Including iPhones

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According to a Reuters report, Apple has asked Indian authorities to make an exemption under the law. Apple hopes to delay the new regulations or find a different way to comply.

It makes sense why Apple wouldn't want to bring USB-C to older iPhones - it would increase the costs and redesigning those iPhones is mostly pointless from the company's perspective. The EU's rules kick will come into effect starting December 2024, and India wants Apple to comply by June 2025.

Apple reportedly told Indian officials that this timeline is achievable if existing models are exempted from the rules, but will need 18 months beyond 2024 in case exemption isn't granted.

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