Tech enthusiasts worldwide eagerly embraced the iPhone 15 as it hit the shelves last week, flocking to Apple stores to secure the latest handset. During the customary unveiling, Tim Cook and his team highlighted a noteworthy feature of this year’s model: compatibility with USB-C cables, thanks to new legislation mandated by the European Parliament.
The shift from Lightning to USB-C promised convenience, allowing previous Android users to seamlessly transition to any of the four new iPhone 15 models without the need for a charger swap. However, since its release, the iPhone 15 has been plagued by reports of overheating issues, with some users finding the device too hot to handle.
Apple’s President, Tim Millet, acknowledged the potential for the iPhone 15 Pro to become hot enough to “burn a hole” through its back cover. Now, a warning has emerged regarding the use of Android USB-C chargers, suggesting that they may exacerbate overheating problems.
An Apple store in Foshan, Guangdong Province, China, has cautioned iPhone 15 users against employing USB-C cables that come with Android devices or are specifically designed for them. While tech-savvy individuals may be aware of the differences in USB-C cables, many consumers may not even realize that there are various types available.
The distinction lies in the Android-specific USB-C cable, which features a smaller gap between the single-row 9-pin and single-row 11-pin connectors, potentially increasing the risk of overheating. It’s important to note that this warning is not limited to a single Chinese store, as reports from multiple Apple-exclusive stores across China have echoed similar concerns.
Critics have speculated that Apple’s motive behind this warning could be to encourage iPhone 15 users to purchase the company’s own USB-C cables, a move that would undoubtedly bolster their business prospects. Apple’s variant of the cable is priced higher than its Android counterpart, making it a potentially lucrative avenue for the tech giant.
However, it’s essential to emphasize that no incidents have been reported where an iPhone 15’s USB-C port has melted due to the use of an Android cable. Apple’s user guide does not explicitly mention avoiding the use of Android USB-C cables, although it does caution against charging the iPhone by connecting it to a keyboard unless the keyboard has a high-power USB port.
In conclusion, while concerns have arisen regarding overheating issues with the iPhone 15, particularly when using Android USB-C chargers, there is no concrete evidence of serious harm. Users should exercise caution, and Apple’s warning may serve as a reminder to consider the type of cable they use. Ultimately, the choice of which cable to use remains in the hands of the consumer.
