Apple pulls remaining Lightning-based devices from European stores

Apple is no longer selling its iPhone SE and iPhone 14 series in Europe – the latest phone models with Apple’s Lightning charging port – as The EU is moving to a common charging solution built around USB-C. EU Directive 2022/2380 comes into effect today in an effort to reduce e-waste and address market fragmentation.

A timely check from The Virgin shows the iPhone SE, iPhone 14 and 14 Plus, and the Lightning-based Magic Keyboard have been pulled from Apple’s online stores in the Netherlands, France, Norway and Germany. Those same devices are still on sale in the United States and in other countries outside the 30 member states of the EEA. A new iPhone SE with USB-C and other updates like an OLED display it is rumored for 2025.

In addition to requiring a USB-C port in a wide range of devices sold in the EU from December 28, 2024, the Directive also requires devices that support fast charging to support the USB PD standard, allowing the separation of cargo bricks from retail. devices, and helps consumers better understand the energy needs of the devices they buy through improved labeling.