USB

iPhone owners can pair a Bluetooth mouse or connect a USB mouse directly to their device, to be used as an alternative input to the touch screen. Some iPad users may already be familiar with using a mouse on Apple's mobile hardware, however there are a few extra steps to get a mouse working on iPhone. A mouse can be helpful for individuals who cannot use the touch screen, or for specific activities where the mouse lends extra control.

Apple has been gearing up for changes to the charging experience with the iPhone 15 lineup. Recent leaks suggest multiple upgrades to the standard Lightning cable that currently ships with the iPhone. All but confirmed is Apple's shift to adopting the USB-C standard, foregoing the proprietary Lighting port in use since 2012.

Apple continues its moves towards USB-C connectivity and away from the proprietary Lightning connector first introduced in 2012. Hot on the heels of several reports detailing the upcoming iPhone 15 featuring a USB-C port, Apple is rumored to add USB-C to its AirPods Pro lineup. The charging case, which currently supports wireless Qi charging and sports a Lightning port would be replaced by a wireless/USB-C model.

Faster data transfer speeds and universal cable compatibility are just two things on the horizon for the next generation iPhone coming later this year. Apple is all but confirmed to bring USB-C to the iPhone 15 Pro lineup this fall. For the first time since its introduction in 2012, the proprietary Lightning connector is to be phased out. At least part of the reason for a switch away from Lightning are new EU regulations mandating that all electronic devices support USB-C for universal compatibility. The move also reduces the number of cables, chargers, and adapters needed by consumers.

Every iPhone from the 3G in 2008 until the iPhone 11 in 2019 was packaged with a 5W USB Power Adapter in the box. While Apple has stopped including a charger with its iPhones, the company continues to sell the classic adapter. This may not be the case for long, as the slow 5-watt charging speed and its USB type-A connector is going the way of the dinosaurs.