Apple will stop selling the iPhone 14 series and iPhone SE 3 in Europe by the end of 2024. This is due to an EU law that requires all mobile phones sold in the region to use USB-C ports by 2025. The law aims to standardize charging ports across devices and reduce electronic waste.
The iPhone 14 series and iPhone SE 3 are the last Apple devices to feature the Lightning port. Apple only recently adopted the USB-C standard with the iPhone 15 series. Android phones have used USB-C ports for some time.
Apple typically keeps older iPhone models available for several years as budget-friendly options. The iPhone 14 series would normally stay on sale until fall 2025. However, if Apple stops sales as reported, it will lose a year of potential sales in Europe.
Apple transitions to USB-C in Europe
The iPhone SE is nearing the end of its lifecycle. It is expected to be replaced by a fourth-generation model in March 2025.
This leaves limited space for the older model in Apple’s lineup. The change is expected to impact only Apple’s European sales. The iPhone SE and iPhone 14 models will likely remain available in other regions such as the United States.
They will stay on sale until their usual phase-out timelines. This shift highlights a broader trend in the tech industry. There is a move towards more unified technology standards.
The goal is to enhance user convenience and sustainability.
