Apple is set to discontinue sales of the iPhone SE (3rd generation) and iPhone 14 series in Europe by the end of 2024 to comply with the European Union’s USB-C universal charging mandate. The EU policy, effective January 2025, requires new devices to feature USB-C ports, making the Lightning port-equipped models non-compliant.
Rather than updating these devices with USB-C ports, Apple has opted to end their European sales earlier than planned. Typically, the iPhone 14 and 14 Plus would remain available in the region until the fall of 2025 when the iPhone 17 launches. This decision means Apple will forgo approximately a year of sales for these models in Europe.
Due to its Lightning connectivity, the only iPhone with Touch ID will be discontinued soon in Europe.
This move is part of Apple’s transition away from the Lightning port. The upcoming fourth-generation iPhone SE, expected in spring 2025, will adopt USB-C and feature design updates resembling the iPhone 14, including an edge-to-edge display and improved camera.
Outside the EU, Apple will continue selling the iPhone SE and iPhone 14 series until their regular end-of-life cycles, likely until the debut of the new SE model and the eventual phase-out of the 14 series in late 2025.
This shift signals the end of the Lightning port era for Apple devices, aligning the company with global standards and EU regulations. Despite the early discontinuation, the impact on Apple’s overall sales is expected to be minimal, as new USB-C-equipped models will replace the outgoing ones.
Filed in . Read more about Apple, Europe, Iphone 14, Iphone Se, Lightning Connector and USB-C.
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