How to tell if you already have new iPhone 15 USB-C cable at home – key signs that you’re safe
APPLE has switched from Lightning cables to USB-C on the new iPhone 15 – but don’t panic just yet.
You’ll get a USB-C cable in the box when you buy a new model, but you might already have some at home.
The cables are now very popular so there’s every chance you have one.
Here’s a guide on how to spot them to see if you’ve already got a spare for your next iPhone.
What is USB-C?
USB-C is a type of connector that you’ll see on electronic devices.
It dates back to 2014 and is now widely used for charging up gadgets – and transferring data too.
Android phone owners will know that the port is now very common.
But it also regularly appears on computers, inside cars, and built into wireless headphones.
Apple has been using USB-C on select MacBook and iPad models for a few years now.
And in September 2023, Apple unveiled four new iPhone 15 smartphones – all of which sport USB-C ports.
Take a look at our story to find out why USB-C on iPhone is great.
Apple also built a USB-C port into the new version of the 2nd-generation AirPods Pro.
USB-C cables can support higher power levels and faster data transfer speeds.
But the big advantage is that USB-C now features on many gadgets, so you’ll be able to use the same cable across many devices.
The cables also a uniform tip that can be plugged in either way up.
How to tell if you have a USB-C cable
USB-C cables are very easy to identify.
It’s unlikely that it’ll say USB-C on the cable, but there are some simple signs to look for.
The connector is a lot smaller than USB Type A – that’s the traditional (and now very old) cable you imagine when you hear USB.
It’s also bigger than Micro USB, which was common on older Android phones and headphones.
And it’s bigger than Apple’s Lightning cable too.
The tip is a long curved oval shape with a smooth exterior.
It’s got a universal orientation, which means it’ll still work if you unplug it, flip it upside down, and put it back in.
Another option is simply to look up the device that the cable with online.
If it’s a recent product, it should say the cable that shipped with the device in the product description.
And if all else fails, trying gently plugging it into an iPhone 15 and see if it fits.
If it feels like you’d have to force it in, stop right there: it’s not USB-C!