iPhone users will be faced with paying an extra £20 charge once charging ports are swapped over.
As we prepare for Apple to announce its 16th iPhone generation later today (12 September), many tech heads have been left wondering what the future holds for the device's charging cable port.
The mammoth technology company is expected to release two iPhone 15 Pro models - one regular sized iPhone 15 Pro with a 6.1-inch display and a larger iPhone 15 Pro Max model with a 6.7-inch screen.
Along with the two Pro models are the standard iPhone 15 and iPhone 15 Plus, as well as the Apple Watch Series 9 and Apple Watch Ultra second-generation - plus Apple AirPods Pro second-generation.
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While various 'leaks' online make claims about the new phone's camera quality and battery life - one thing that can almost certainly be confirmed about the latest iPhones is that they will be compatible with a USB-C charging cable.
The new decision follows a new EU law which has declared that all portable devices need to be compatible with a universal charger by December 2024.
The law is aimed to combat e-waste by bringing about a common standard for chargers.
This means that the new standardised cable will be incompatible with the charging bricks many Apple device owners currently use to plug their phones into the wall socket.
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Because of this, some new owners will have to purchase a power adapter which could cost around £20.
While some customers may be frustrated by the initial fee, many have since taken to social media to point out that the short-term charge could lead to way more savings in the future - let alone the environmental benefits.
One X user hit out: "Apple has made an absolute killing selling their own chargers that are not compatible with any other device. The EU forces them to use chargers compatible with other devices. The EU rule change is long overdue."
"But people don’t have to buy multiple chargers so save much less than £20," pointed out a second.
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And a third chimed in: "The EU is correct and the £20 charger will able to be shared across most other phones, meaning in real terms a savings. Standardised chargers more widely available, reduce manufacturing and supply chain."
"If you can afford an iPhone you can stump up a tenner for an adapter," penned a fourth, "in the unlikely event you’ve not got one."
Apple has also previously announced it will no longer include power adapters with its new iPhones in an attempt to reduce its electronic waste.
Tech aficionados won't have to wait long for all their iPhone 15 queries to be answered as the special event, 'Wonderlust', will shortly be kicking off at the Steve Jobs Theatre in Apple Park in California - with Brits being able to tune in at 6pm.
The keynote livestream can be watched here.
Rhiannon Ingle