USB-C, like Lightning, but unlike its predecessor microUSB, can be plugged in either direction. USB-C has similarities with Lightning, and advantages over microUSB. On April 10, 2015, Apple announced a new line of MacBooks that featured USB-C. The optional supplemental standard USB On-The-Go allows USB devices to do this. Īpple has not publicly discussed microUSB, but various tech news websites state that Lightning might have been used instead of microUSB because of its compatibility with docks and speaker systems the ability to insert the cable in either direction for user convenience Apple wishing to maintain control over supply chain of accessories the ability to charge a licensing fee and the mechanical weakness of USB connectors. The authentication scheme has been cracked, however. Official Lightning connectors contain an authentication chip that made it difficult for third-party manufacturers to produce compatible accessories without being approved by Apple. The Lightning to 30-pin adapter supports only a limited subset of the available 30-pin signals: USB data, USB charging, and analog audio output (via the DAC inside of the adapter ). Īpple offers various adapters that allow the Lightning connector to be used with other interfaces, such as 30-pin, USB, HDMI, VGA, and SD cards. The maximum transfer speed available over the Lightning connector is 480Mbps, same as USB 2.0. Part of the processor's job is to route the power and data signals correctly whichever way up the connector is inserted. Each pin on the reverse side of the connector is connected to its directly opposite twin on the other side. Unlike the Apple 30 pin connector it replaces (and USB Type A or B connectors), the Lightning connector can be inserted either face up or face down. Lightning is an 8-pin connector that carries a digital signal. Apple has stated concerns that this will "harm consumers in Europe and around the world." Technology Commentators say that rule will impact Apple most heavily. And in September 2021 the EU made a proposal that all smartphone manufacturers are required to support USB-C, in order to meet frustrations of EU consumers regarding being required to buy additional chargers and the E-waste that results from that. In January 2020, the EU commission proposed laws to standardize charger ports.
#2 charging cable for macbook air pro#
On October 30, 2018, Apple announced that their new range of iPad Pro models will replace Lightning with USB-C. Normal USB-A - Lightning cables are still USB 2.0. The only accessory that supports USB 3.0 is the new camera adapter. The iPad Pro, released in 2015, features the first Lightning connector supporting USB 3.0 host. Apple is the sole proprietor of the trademark and copyrights for the designs and specifications of the Lightning connector. Apple was given a partial transfer of the Lightning trademark, suggesting that Harley-Davidson likely retained the rights to use the name for motorcycle-related products. On November 25, 2012, Apple acquired the "Lightning" trademark in Europe from Harley-Davidson. The iPad (4th generation) and the iPad Mini (1st generation) were added as Lightning devices in October 2012. The first compatible devices were the iPhone 5, the iPod Touch (5th generation), and the iPod Nano (7th generation). It would soon be integrated with all new hardware and devices that were to be announced at the same event.
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The Lightning connector was introduced on September 12, 2012 ( ), as an upgrade to the 30-pin dock connector. The male plug is indented on each side to match up with corresponding points inside the female port to retain the connection. The male Lightning connector is symmetrical (same pins on either side), so it can be inserted into a female Lightning port in either orientation. Using 8 pins instead of 30, Lightning is much smaller than its predecessor, which was integrated with devices like the iPhone 4 and the iPad 2. The Lightning connector is used to connect Apple mobile devices like iPhones, iPads, and iPods to host computers, external monitors, cameras, USB battery chargers, and other peripherals. Introduced on September 12, 2012 ( ), to replace its predecessor, the 30-pin dock connector. Lightning is a proprietary computer bus and power connector created and designed by Apple Inc. Lane 0 and 1 may swap in IC of device connector (lanes don't swap if the accessory identification chip is connected to the ID0 pin)